FAQs

What qualities do you look for in an ideal student?

Students must have a strong drive to succeed and live independently. We want to see that the student has the motivation to achieve their goals. Students must exhibit the desire to continue classroom learning, participate in events on campus, and in the community.

What skills are needed to be successful in the CEP?

Students are most successful when they have academic skills equivalent to the 4th grade reading/writing level or better, basic math skills and the knowledge of the use of a calculator. Students should have experience being independent in the community and be safe without direct supervision.

Who is eligible to apply?

Students with an intellectual disability and enrolled in the NYS Office of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities (OMRDD) waiver are eligible to be admitted. Applicants can apply prior to acceptance in the OMRDD waiver.

If you are a resident of NYS, contact your local NYS OMRDD DDSO office (Department of Developmental Services Office) to learn how to apply for Medicaid services. Visit www.omr.state.ny.us/document/hp_contacts.jsp.

What are the costs associated with the CEP?

The program is fully paid by the NYS OMRDD Medicaid waiver and Social Security benefits (SSI and/or SSDI). All costs associated with the program are covered: tuition, staffing, housing, meal plans, and other related expenses.

At what age should I apply?

Students between the ages of 21-26 are the best fit for the program due to their level of maturity and desire for independence, however, each student's application is examined independently. We have accepted students under the age of 21 if they exhibited the readiness to attend college and the qualities needed to succeed in our program. Students should apply the year before they would like to enroll in CEP.

May I apply if I live out of New York State?

CEP is offered only for students that are residents of New York State. Opportunities for out of State students are being investigated. If you are from another state or country, please contact us. We are working to develop a tuition-based program for students who do not reside in New York State.

When should I begin the process of applying to the program?

Students should begin by attending an Interest Meeting a year prior to applying. If students would like information at an earlier date they can attend an Interest Meeting or request information via phone or email. Contact Us

How accessible is the program?

The College of Saint Rose is an accessible campus with ramps, automatic doors and elevators. Students must be able to navigate Albany sidewalks or take the city bus to get from their residence to the campus. Presently, none of our housing is accessible. CEP is in the process of searching for an accessible house. Physically challenged students should apply so we can determine the level of interest and need. All students must be independent in their activities of daily living.