Education

Well on Your Way

You may want to continue going to school after you graduate from high school. You have many options so it is a good idea to start planning and preparing for this transition early. For example, if you have a health condition or disability, you will have to think about whether going away to school is right for you.

Some common questions are below.

What will I take and where will I go?

To find out more about post-secondary schools and programs offered in Alberta, go to Alberta Learning Information Service (ALIS). ALIS also offers a Transition Planning Guide for students with disabilities.

Are there resources to support me if I have a disability or health condition?

Post-secondary schools offer accessibility services to support you if you have a disability or health condition. Supports—usually called accommodations—may include things like scribes, computers, parking passes, extra time, special software, a standing desk, audio recordings, or dictation services. Register for school accessibility services early.

To learn more:

1. Visit the ALIS website for information about Post-Secondary Schools
2. Click on the school that interests you.
3. Search on the school’s website for ‘disability services’, or contact the school to ask about the accessibility services they offer.

If you are missing lots of school because of your condition, make sure to let your instructors and the accessibility services team know so they can help you come up with a plan.

How will I pay for my schooling?

• The ALIS website has funding options for post-secondary education.
• Look into scholarships, bursaries, and/or grants  to help you pay for your tuition, textbooks, and other expenses. For example, Alberta Blue Cross has a scholarship fund to help young Albertans.
• If you have a disability, you may be eligible for the Canada Student Grant for Students with Permanent Disabilities.
• If you have a disability or ongoing health condition, you can also check out the Canadian Disability Awards database to see if there are scholarships for students with your condition, like the Kids Cancer Care scholarship for childhood cancer survivors in southern Alberta.
• To find out if you qualify for student aid, go to the Alberta student aid website or review the Student Financial Assistance page on the Government of Canada website.

What if I have a developmental disability?

Many universities and colleges offer specialized programs those with a developmental disability.

• Inclusive Post-Secondary Education (IPSE):  This program is for those who want to continue learning or going to school. You will be able to go to classes, meet new people, and meet people your own age.
• Transitional Vocational/Employment Program (TVP): This program is shorter and focuses on developing skills to help you get and keep a job.

To learn more about going to school, check out the recommended resources below or visit our Resources section.