FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

The UW-Whitewater LIFE (Learning Is For Everyone) Program is an inclusive postsecondary education program for young adults with intellectual disabilities. The program focuses on academics, independent living, employment readiness, and participation in campus life.

Students who successfully complete the LIFE Program receive a certificate of completion (not a degree) from UW-Whitewater.

Both the Basic Program and the Advanced Program are two years long. All students begin in the Basic Program. During their final semester of the Basic Program, they may apply to continue in the Advanced Program.

LIFE Program coursework is taught by a variety of professionals, including licensed special education teachers.

Students develop skills in functional academics, employment readiness, independent living, social communication, self-advocacy, and safety and wellness. Instruction is practical and applied throughout campus life.

Yes, LIFE students enroll in at least one UW-Whitewater course per semester that is aligned with their interests.

The LIFE Program is a residential program. Students in the Basic Program are required to live on campus in a residence hall to support independence, skill development, and engagement in college life.

LIFE students in the Basic Program live in Tutt Residence Hall on campus and are integrated with traditional undergraduate students. LIFE students in the Advanced Program live in apartments close to campus.

Yes. Students in the Basic Program are supported by Independent Living Assistants (ILAs) during non-classroom hours, including mornings, evenings, and some time on the weekends.

Students with a valid driver's license may have a car on campus. A university parking permit is required and can be purchased through Parking Services.

Yes. Employment preparation is a core part of the LIFE Program and includes career exploration, job readiness skills, and applied learning experiences.

Yes. Volunteer opportunities are offered as vocational learning opportunities to help students build transferable job skills and explore career interests in real-world settings.

Applicants must be between 18-25 years old at the time of acceptance, have a documented intellectual disability, and demonstrate readiness for a residential campus-based program. See our Apply page for the full list of qualifications.

Yes. After an initial review of completed applications, selected students may be invited to participate in an interview with LIFE Program staff.

Application deadlines are posted on our Apply page and typically fall in late December for the following academic year.

Program costs include LIFE Program fees, housing, meals, coursework, and estimated personal expenses. Current cost information is available on our Tuition page.

Yes. The LIFE Program is an approved Comprehensive Transition Program (CTP), allowing eligible students to apply for federal financial aid.

In many cases, IRIS benefits or self-directed supports may be used for eligible LIFE Program expenses. Families should consult their IRIS coordinator for guidance. Please note: IRIS is a Wisconsin-only program.

Yes. The LIFE Program offers an annual Open House, as well as limited Visit Day opportunities throughout the academic year. Group Tours can also be coordinated through UW-Whitewater Admissions.