ASCEND Application Process
Application Process
Students wishing to be considered for admission to the ASCEND program must provide the following information and/or completed forms:
- Apply to Missouri State University-West Plains
- ASCEND Application
- A copy of the most recent IEP or 504 Plan from the high school setting and a list of accommodations utilized in a recent college setting if the student has completed some college
- Documented evidence of a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), or other neurodiverse diagnosis
- Parent/Guardian Perspective & Goals (will be emailed out after ASCEND application is submitted)
- Note: For non-traditional students, the parent/guardian perspective may be waived.
- Teacher Perspectives & Goals (will be emailed out after ASCEND application is submitted)
- ASCEND Agreement
Send print forms and documentation to ASCENDWP@MissouriState.edu or mail to:
Admission Process
An application committee will review applications, then set up at time for an interview with the committee, student and parents (if applicable). The interview process is in place to ensure the ASCEND program is the best fit for each student.
Please do not call about the status of your application, as we will not be able to provide this information for you over the phone. Upon the interview process, you will receive notification in writing letting you know of your acceptance. We strive to keep students and families informed of our progress in reviewing and determining admission opportunities.
Admission will be based on the following criteria:
- The applicant must have a diagnosis of ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder). (Other neurodivergent diagnosis may be accepted on a case by case basis i.e. ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Sensory Processing Disorder).
- The applicant must have sufficient emotional and independent stability to participate in all aspects of the Missouri State University-West Plains (MSU-WP) coursework and campus environment.
- ASCEND students have the same rights, privileges, freedoms, and responsibilities as
other MSU-WP students:
- MSU-WP students are not supervised 24/7 and are expected to live responsibly and independently during their college experiences.
- Relatedly, an ASCEND staff member can respond to emergency situations on campus.
- The applicant must demonstrate the ability to accept and follow reasonable rules and behave respectfully towards others.
- The applicant must demonstrate the desire to attend the MSU-WP ASCEND program and adhere to the policies regarding attendance and participation in their program of study and typical MSU-WP classes.
- The applicant must have the potential to successfully achieve his/her goals within the context of the ASCEND program’s content setting.
