Requesting Services for Ages 5–22

The process of qualifying for special education services is similar for older students except that the tests are no longer play-based but more standardized (IQ test, adaptive skills, language assessments, etc.). However, the same timelines apply. The IEP team must review and rewrite the IEP each year.

In addition, school personnel evaluate your child every 3 years to update their level of performance and to confirm they still qualify for services.

Students on an IEP can stay in school until the age of 22. Special Education is designed to prepare students with disabilities for further education, employment, and independent living. So, the years between ages 18 and 22 are traditionally used to help students learn additional life and vocational skills.