ÇÑ×ÓÊÓƵ¹ÙÍø

 This is a content holder for the one button emergency notification system.

Free tuition and mandatory fees for families earning $125,000 or less. Learn about the Bridgewater Commitment »

EXCEL Certificate Admission Requirements

EXCEL students on tour

Admission Criteria:

Consideration for admission to the EXCEL Certificate program is given to individuals who meet the following criteria:

  • Documented intellectual/developmental disability
  • Must be at least 18 years old
  • Have completed four years of high school, are no longer enrolled in a school district, and are no longer receiving special education services under IDEA
  • Previously enrolled in a high school special education program
  • Eagerness to continue education in a college setting
  • Demonstrate communication skills adequate to interact with others on the BSU campus
  • Demonstrate emotional stability and maturity; no history of disruptive or challenging behaviors (the EXCEL Program does not have the personnel required to manage behavioral needs)
  • Able to self-administer medications
  • Express interest in living and working as independently as possible in the community after completing the EXCEL Program; a vision supported by family/guardian.
  • Desire to build upon self-determination and self-advocacy skills; a vision supported by family/guardian
  • Able to identify job-related interests and career goals; ultimate goal is paid employment
  • Able to adhere to the  

Additional criteria for students applying to the EXCEL Residence Life program:

  • Able to function independently (uses technology, navigates campus, follows own schedule, etc.)
  • Functional daily living skills (personal care, grooming, etc.).
  • Functional self-advocacy skills (knowledge of one’s own disability and learning strengths/needs)
  • Able to independently recognize and react to emergency situations
  • Able to live independent from support staff
  • Able to make appropriate decisions regarding personal safety
  • Able to manage personal belongings (ID, phone, wallet, money, etc.).
  • At least a third-grade reading level
  • Motivation and willingness to build upon daily/independent living skills
  • Adhere to the code of conduct as outlined by