Colleges for Autistic Students

More than half of young adults with ASD do not go to college after high school. And while 35 percent will attempt to attend college later, most do not get admitted or they do but then drop out. Though many colleges and universities provide an array of services to students with learning or physical disabilities, those with ASD have needs that extend beyond the classroom, and their success in classroom is directly implicated in those needs.

But it is not dire. There are many schools across the nation that have recognized those needs and have put programs in place to secure the academic and social experience of their students with ASD. These programs go way above and beyond the services typically offered by a Disability Resource Center.

For example, in addition to providing academic advising many of the schools below provide guidance and counseling on life skills, including hygiene awareness, dorm decorum, communication techniques with peers and faculty, and more. Similarly, many of the best schools for students with ASD offer vital transition programs. Because high school is so different than college—the latter being marked by independence and self-sufficiency—many students have a hard time with the adjustment. The transition program is an effective way schools help students have a smooth passage into college life.

The colleges and universities on our ranking are just these kind of schools. They have not only recognized the diverse needs of students with ASD, and met those needs, they've recognized the importance of neuro-diversity on campus. They have identified and removed hurdles, and promoted self-advocacy and development across social, academic, and vocational levels. They have introduced neuro-diversity into the curriculum and given athletes with ASD an inclusive place to play. They are, hands down, the best colleges and universities in the nation for those with ASD who are eager to earn their college degree.

If you're interested in colleges that cater to students with disabilities, please check out our ranking of the Best Disability Friendly Colleges and Universities.

Featured Colleges and Universities