Helping autistic and neurodivergent students transition to, navigate, and succeed in college.
Overview
PASS is a fee-based program designed to support University of Tennessee, Knoxville students with an autism spectrum disorder, autism-like difficulties, or who identify as neurodivergent, as they work toward academic, social, and career success. Our flexible, tiered model includes individualized coaching, skill-building modules, peer mentoring, and more—all designed to foster independence and success in college.
Who We Serve:
- Students enrolled at UTK who autism, autism-like difficulties, or who identify as neurodivergent
- First-year through graduate-level students
- Students seeking extra structure and support for college success
What Makes PASS Unique?
- Tiered support structure tailored to student needs
- Integrated academic and social skill coaching
- Credit-bearing course to support academic, executive functioning, and relationship development skills
- Individualized coaching meetings
- Professional mentoring to strengthen career readiness
- Peer mentoring and facilitated social activities
- Parent and faculty liaison to support collaboration
- Supervised by clinical faculty with expertise in autism and neurodivergence
Program Structure
Tiered Model of Support:
- Credit-bearing course: Executive functioning, self-advocacy, and relationship building
- Weekly coaching meetings: Personalized sessions tailored to meet social, academic, self-advocacy, and independent living goals
- Skill-building modules: Flexible, individualized topics
- Peer mentoring: Social engagement and support
- Parent liaison: FERPA-compliant communication bridge
Outcomes
- Over 80% of students who complete PASS return the following semester
- Students report increased confidence, organization, and campus engagement
- Alumni have gone on to graduate school, internships, and employment
Cost & Financial Information
PASS costs $5,000 per semester. Some students may be eligible for funding through:
- State Vocational Rehabilitation Services
- Scholarships or university-based aid
- Private educational loans or grants
Financial planning guidance is available upon request.
Apply to PASS
We offer rolling admissions for fall, spring, and summer semesters.
How to Apply:
- Complete PASS application (PDF or online form below)
- Submit psychoeducational or psychological evaluation information
- Participate in intake interview (virtual or in person)