Host Chapter: Annapolis Valley, Cape Breton Region, Cumberland County, Pictou County, Central Office, South West, South Shore, Strait Area, Truro • Categories: Adults, Parents and Caregivers • Province Wide
Post-Secondary Autism Support Services (PASS)
PASS supports Autistic youth to navigate the transition from high school to their early adult years, and to develop skills that will lead to academic success and greater independence. Using a person-directed approach, the PASS program works to create plans that are unique to each individual’s needs and supports each person in creating the life that is right for them.
Ages/Life Stage:
Students entering or currently enrolled in an academic College or University program.
Description:
The PASS program teaches and empowers students through evidence-based practices to gain independence, enhance skills and achieve success within non-academic areas in their post-secondary experience. The program works with the student in developing plans that are unique to their goals and supports in creating a post-secondary experience that is right for each student. The program also supports post-secondary staff, faculty and accessibility services. The PASS team collaborates, shares practices and advocates beside the student to facilitate a deeper acceptance of autism and more inclusive settings for learners across the lifespan.
Are you Eligible for PASS?
The PASS Program is self-referral program. That means you (the individual) are in charge of your support through the PASS program from the start! Upcoming students, potential students, and current students are welcome to email with any questions around the program.
Email: pass@autismns.ca
Registration Criteria* for the PASS Program:
1. Have a diagnosis of autism (read on for how to access the program if you don’t)
2. Accepted and enrolled into an academic Post-secondary program
3. Must be a Nova Scotia resident
4. Must be either a Canadian citizen, a Landed Immigrant, or a Protected Person
6. You are motivated and give consent to receive support
7. You have access to the Student Grant for Services and Equipment, which is accessible through the Nova Scotia Student Loan portal, myPATH, once students have applied for a student loan and uploaded paperwork around diagnosis.
Students who are not eligible for Nova Scotia Student Loan or who do not have a formal diagnosis of autism, please connect with us as there are alternative funding sources we can explore!
How do I register for PASS?
First, complete the PASS registration form.
Once completed, the PASS team will contact you.
If you have any questions, email us at pass@autismns.ca.
Summer Programing:
The PASS portfolio is undergoing a review of the Summer Program, including what we offer and how we offer it.
We are currently not offering the PASS Summer Program.
What can you do in the meantime?
- Check out the Career Quest – Post Secondary Stream
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- This stream supports individuals who are preparing to enter or re-enter post-secondary education in the coming school year.
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- A weekly, virtual group session to support the transition to post-secondary education.
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- Find out more information and how to apply here.
2. Fill out the survey to help ensure we are meeting the needs of our community! Students, caregivers, and stakeholders are welcome to fill out the survey.
Thank you for your continued support!
"My experience with the PASS program has been extremely transformative in assisting me in my academic life. I have worked with a couple of eager and well-informed coordinators who went head-over-heels to find different options to approach university life challenges as well as daily improvements to my personal well-being. The program has opened my eyes to new attitudes and means of improving my mental state and I couldn’t be more thankful. I look forward to reconnecting with the program in the Fall."
- Alex, PASS Participant
"I really like the PASS program, all the people I have worked with as part of the program are very friendly and understand me well. It has been a great experience so far and can't wait to work with these people again! They were even able to modify the strategies they taught me to fit me, my personality, as well as my challenges, and helped me to be successful. I could not have done this without their support, encouragement, and expertise!"
- PASS Participant
"PASS has been a constant source of support, encouragement and good advice over the past couple of years."
- Parent of PASS Participant
