Host Chapter: Annapolis Valley, Cape Breton Region, Cumberland County, Pictou County, Halifax, 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 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 collaborate, share practices and advocate 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 student) are in charge of your support through the PASS program from the start! Upcoming students, potential students, and current students are welcome to register or email with any questions around the program.
Email: pass@autismns.ca
Registration Criteria* for the PASS Program:
1. Have a diagnosis of autism
2. Accepted and enrolled into a Post-secondary program
3. Must be a Nova Scotia resident
4. Must be either a Canadian citizen, a Landed Immigrant, or a Protected Person
5. No significant emotional, behavioural, or mental health conditions that interfere with post-secondary program
6. You are motivated and give consent to receive support
7. You have access to the Student Grant for Services and Equipment
*Please note: Participants must apply to the Nova Scotia Student Loan to access the Student Grant for Services and Equipment that funds a student’s enrollment in PASS. The result of the Student Loan Application is not connected to accessing the Grant. The Student Loan is simply the pathway to accessing the Services and Equipment Grant. The student does not have to be accepted for a student loan, or need to use the funds from the student loan.
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!
Summer Programing
The PASS Summer Program is back again! During the months of July and August, on Wednesdays virtually from 3pm to 6pm, the PASS Summer Program runs for students entering into their first year of post-secondary in the Fall, and for students who have maybe taken a few years between post-secondary journeys. Created to support the transition into post-secondary, the PASS Summer Program is run entirely on Brightspace, and covers topics such as social skills, organization, navigating school websites, common accommodations, and much more! Each weekly session is recorded and posted for students to allow for flexibility in attendance and re-watching.
Questions? Email us at pass@autismns.ca, or fill out our general registration form (linked below) and indicate you’re interested in the Summer Program! We’ll be in touch (for all things) within 10 business days.
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.
"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
