Admissions Criteria

Shepherds College serves individuals with intellectual disabilities such as significant learning, cognitive, and developmental conditions, whose disability impacts their ability to access course content without a system of educational supports and services.

In order to be admitted to Shepherds College, an individual must:

  • Be at least 18 years of age by the start of the school year.
  • Meet eligibility guidelines established by the American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (AAIDD) on intellectual disability:
    • A person scores approximately two standard deviations below the mean of any standardized IQ test.
    • Limitations in adaptive behavior skills including conceptual, social, and practical skills that impact activities of daily living.
    • Evidence that the disability was present before the age of 18.
  • Have completed his or her Individualized Education Plan and received a high school diploma, certificate of completion or equivalent.
  • Demonstrate the ability to get along well with others.
  • Be free of self-injurious behaviors and behaviors harmful to others.

We would like your child to attend Shepherds College in order to learn and gain Appropriate Independence™. If you aren't sure if your child will qualify, please give Chris Wright, Director of Admissions a call. You can reach him at 262.878.6351. We can learn more about your son or daughter as well as answer any additional questions you may have.