How to Apply

TAP envisions a world where young adults with ID/DD are afforded the option of post-secondary education. We are emerging as a leader in creating an authentic inclusive living-learning experience that builds career skills, academic achievement, personal responsibility, social networks, and a promising future.

Application and Due Dates:

Applications will be accepted beginning July 1 for academic 2024 fall semester admissions. Applications and Recommendations should be submitted along with the nonrefundable $50 application fee. If you have any questions, contact us at TAPApplyNow@uc.edu.

The TAP Application & Recommendation Packet can be found below. 

TAP Application
Recommendation Packet
Make Payments Here
  • October 20th – Early Action: We must receive your complete application (by that we mean your admission application and recommendation packet) by 11:59 PM (EST) on October 20 if you wish to be considered for Early Action. By meeting the early action deadline, you will get an admission decision by the end of December.
  • February 2nd – Regular Decision: February 2nd by 11:59 PM (EST) is the final date by which we must receive your complete application. You’ll get an admission decision by the end of March. Applications received after February 2 will be reviewed if the freshman cohort has not been filled.

Admission Phases

The completed applications will be reviewed as received. 

TAP Application

Note: To pick up where you left off in the application, you must use the original application link on the same device and use the same browser. Application checklist:

  • Complete TAP application. Make sure you click through to the final page to ensure your application has been submitted.
    • Your name
    • The reason you would like to participate in TAP at UC
    • What you hope to learn while enrolled at the University of Cincinnati
    • Your goals for the future (employment, etc.)
    • Your favorite social/recreational activity
  • Upload a 1-3 minute video detailing the following:
    • Anything else you would like to include to support your application to TAP
    • An official transcript of the applicant’s high school coursework
    • An official copy of the applicant’s IEP or 504 Plan, and Evaluation Team Report (ETR). If statewide testing accommodations are not included in the IEP, a separate document is required.
  • Most current psychological evaluation within past two years; must include full-scale IQ, cognitive ability, achievement and social/emotional testing.
  • Behavior Record from high school and any postsecondary program attended. If the student has no record, a letter is required from the high school and postsecondary program stating there is no record.
  • $50 non-refundable application fee. Make payment here.
  • Recommendations should include at least one from a previous high school teacher and students are encouraged to include one from an employer or volunteer supervisor.
  • (2) Recommendation Packets from non-family members who have known the applicant for at least 1 year.
  • Parents or guardians, please complete the Readiness Survey and Personal Support Form.
Recommendation Packet

The purpose of the Document Review is to identify the applicant's potential for success as a University of Cincinnati college student. During this phase, the program staff may contact the applicant, parents, and/or references for additional information or clarification. If it is determined that the applicant has met the threshold for admissions, the application documentation will be forwarded on to the Admissions Committee.

The Admissions Committee will conduct interviews with applicants and their families.

The determination of the admissions decisions is made in writing to the applicants. If the determination is that the applicant does not meet admission requirements, the applicant will receive feedback from the Admissions Committee.

If selected for admission, the applicant will submit paperwork and acceptance fee to confirm enrollment for the fall semester.

Program Requirements

  • Cognitive assessment with documented intellectual or developmental disability
  • High school diploma- age 18 or older
  • Basic academic skills
  • Ability to learn and participate in inclusive classrooms and work settings
  • Demonstrate interest and ability to pursue educational, employment, and life experiences through post-secondary education

Fees, Grants, and Scholarships