College-Based Transition Services
Opening College Doors While Still in High School
What is CBTS?
College-Based Transition Services (CBTS) give students with intellectual disability access to real college experiences while still in high school. Students take courses, join campus life, and explore careers. CBTS help build skills, connections, and confidence they carry into adulthood.
What effective services look like
- Career exploration tied to student goals
- College coursework that builds skills and confidence
- Social opportunities with college peers
- Paid work aligned with employment goals
- Strong school–college partnerships
How we support your team
- Strengthen school–college partnerships
- Train staff and campus partners
- Clarify roles and expectations
- Create practical tools for teams
- Support communication with families
Clarifying CBTS for School Teams
Struggling to explain CBTS clearly in IEP meetings? You’re not alone. Parents often share, “I want to include college in my future plans, but I’m not sure how to explain it.” The MA Center partnered with districts to sharpen the message and develop a practical presentation that shows how CBTS fits within transition services and aligns with IEP requirements. Now, teams have a tool they can use in real conversations with families and staff, with clearer language and a shared way to describe the opportunity.
Recommended Resources
Learn strategies to solve staffing challenges in transition services for schools and colleges.
Learn how to use dual enrollment to strengthen transition plans for students with intellectual disability or autism.
Learn how CBTS build academic, employment, and independent living skills for students with intellectual disability.