Steps to Apply to Threshold
The Threshold Program accepts about 24 new students each year from a large number of applicants.
1. Submit Forms & Materials
- Online Application Form, completed by the parent. Create an online account before you start your application. This account allows you to stop your application and return to complete it later. Once you’ve begun your application, and until you submit it, you can work on it as many times as you want.
- Parent Questionnaire (PDF), completed by the parent.
- Applicant Questionnaire (PDF), completed by the student.
- Official high school transcript or certificate of completion.
2. Complete Assessments & Evaluations
Education Evaluation
Evaluations should have been conducted within the past 3 years. Include grade level equivalents that were obtained on one these tests:
- Wechsler Individual Achievement Test (WIAT)
- Kaufman Test of Educational Achievement (KTEA)
- Most recent IEP or Section 504 accommodation plan (if applicable)
Psychological Tests and Adaptive Assessments
Tests should have been administered in the past 3 years. The WAIS* is a programmatic requirement. Adaptive Assessments and other types of assessments may be chosen from this list:
- Adaptive Behavior Assessment System (ABAS-III)
- Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule – 2 (ADOS-2)
- Autism Diagnostic Interview- Revised (ADI-R)
- Behavioral Assessment System for Children (BASC-3)
- Conner’s Behavior Rating Scales (CBRS)
- Vineland Adaptive Behavior Rating Scales (VABS) (including the maladaptive subscale)
- Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS) and a full protocol (all sub-test scores and verbal, performance, and full-scale scores) and a written report*
The assessment needs to include a psycho-social history and a combination of psychological tests, and adaptive rating scales. The assessment must be in narrative form and include recommendations for any treatment (psychotherapy or medication) the psychologist finds necessary for the student to function independently in a campus setting.
The goal is to address emotional, behavioral, and social issues that might influence the fit between the student’s needs and the program’s ability to meet those needs. The choice of instruments depends on the psychologist’s knowing the student’s cognitive abilities and using appropriate techniques for that student.
3. Receive Recommendations
Submit three recommendations from people who’ve known the applicant for six or more months. At least one reference should come from a teacher, principal, or guidance counselor.
If possible, one reference should come from an employer or work supervisor. Other possible reference writers include a psychotherapist or social worker. Relatives/family friends are not a suitable reference.
Use our official Recommendation Form (PDF).
4. Have a Personal Interview
We’ll contact qualified applicants to schedule an interview after we’ve received all of their admissions materials.
5. Explore Costs and Financial Aid
We're committed to helping families understand the costs of our program and the financial aid options available. You can review our tuition and fees and check out our guide to financial aid and scholarships.