All students admitted to STEP begin in the Full version of programming, with a fee of $3,000 per semester. Fees ensure staffing, materials, programming, and delivery of services are available to students. We also provide a less-intensive version of STEP with fees of $1,500 per semester. The level of programming (Full or Maintenance) is determined by STEP staff based on careful and in-depth review of students' ongoing ability to self-direct while maintaining success on campus. Recommendations are made for each student at the end of each semester. To make a payment, click the following link: https://commerce.cashnet.com/eiucds3.
No, this program is not just for freshman. We provide supports for first-time freshmen and transfer students from community colleges or other four-year universities. Students with autism who are already attending EIU may also apply to the program.
Yes, you may live off campus. However, we recommend living on campus at least initially, while you work along with STEP to acclimate and develop the routines and strategies that work for you. We often have students who anticipate shifting to apartment-living and then plan ahead for those additional challenges.
STEP is an autism support program designed to for the adult learner at the post-secondary education level. The skills you will be working on are designed around the adult lifestyle, college coursework, and skills and strategies needed to encourage success at EIU. We are here to help you achieve your goals, plan ahead, and navigate challenges. We infuse a number of services and supports for you each week, and we will help you triage unexpected or unusually complicated problems. But we are not here to micromanage or oversee every aspect of your daily life. We want you to be yourself, develop your passions and talents, and pursue your goals with confidence.
1311 Klehm Hall
600 Lincoln Ave.
Charleston, IL 61920
(217) 581-6361
Fax: (217) 581-7105
step@eiu.edu