Inquiries & Consultations Welcome!
If you are considering STEP services for your student and want to learn more, we encourage you to reach out. We are happy to answer questions and talk through your options.
Families often ask about:
- The differences between high school and college classes
- What a neurodivergent support program offers
- How STEP differs from standard academic accommodations
- What other supports are available on campus
- How to know if a student is ready for the transition to college
We also welcome conversations about your student’s goals, concerns, and past experiences. You are welcome to contact us or visit at any time during the year.
Ways to Connect
Inquiries (Short Conversations)
You can contact us at any time by phone (at 217-581-6361), email (at step@eiu.edu), or by stopping in. These conversations are typically brief and are a good way to:
- Ask initial questions
- Share basic information about your student
- Learn about possible next steps
Consultations (Scheduled, In-Depth Meetings)
Consultations are longer, more detailed conversations and must be scheduled. These meetings:
- Last at least one hour
- Ideally include both the student and parent(s) or guardian(s)
- Help us better understand your student’s needs and readiness for college
It is helpful, but not required, to share educational records or evaluations before the meeting so we can provide more personalized feedback.
Consultations are required if your student plans to apply to STEP.
Note: Consultations are typically not scheduled in August due to staff training and student onboarding.
Meeting Options
Consultations can be:
- In person on campus
- Virtual (Zoom) for added flexibility
If you are visiting campus, you can also schedule a campus tour through the Admissions Office on the same day.
About STEP
STEP focuses on helping degree-seeking students build:
- Self-appraisal and goal-setting to support daily decision making and routines
- Executive functioning skills to plan and manage time, tasks, and academic demands
- Communication strategies for effective self-advocacy and interactions with peers and professors
- Social connections and networks for balance between academics and leisure interests
- Resume development and interview skills in anticipation of workplace demands
Our goal is to support students in adjusting to college life and preparing for success beyond the university.
How to Contact Us
Phone: 217-581-6361
Email: mailto:step@eiu.edu
Applying to STEP
Applications for Fall 2026 are now closed. Visits and inquiries for 2027 are welcome.
Important Information
- STEP admits new students once per year, in the fall
- Students must apply to both:
- Eastern Illinois University (through Admissions)
- STEP (separately)
Application Timeline
- Applications are accepted year-round
- The recommended time to apply is September through April before the fall start
- The program often fills by late March or early April
Application Requirements
- Consultation
A consultation is required before admission. - Possible Interview
Some students may also be asked to complete a follow-up interview. However, we strive to do these in conjunction with your consultation as long as application materials have already been submitted. Combining conversations puts students at ease and reduces scheduling demands. - Documentation
Please provide:- Documentation of an autism diagnosis (medical or educational)
- A recent neuropsychological evaluation (within 2–3 years, if available)
- A recent IEP or 504 Plan (if applicable)
- Documents can be uploaded, emailed, or mailed to STEP at EIU, 600 Lincoln Ave., Charleston, IL 61920, Attn: STEP 1311 Klehm Hall.
- Forms to Complete
Admission Decisions
- Space in STEP is limited
- Not all applicants will be admitted
- Decisions are based on overall fit with the program
Families will be notified by email once decisions are made.
If admitted, students and families must complete and return required agreement forms to confirm participation.
Some funding is provided in part by The Autism Program of Illinois.
