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Comprehensive Transition Program (CTP): B.E.A.R.S Program

Believing in Every Ability and Realizing Success

Changes in the Higher Education Act have made it possible for eligible individuals with intellectual disabilities to receive federal financial aid when they are attending an approved Comprehensive Transition and Postsecondary (CTP) Program, even if they do not have a regular high school diploma and are not matriculating towards a degree.

About our Program

Believing in Every Ability and Realizing Success (B.E.A.R.S) is a comprehensive transition postsecondary (CTP) program recognized by the US Department of Education. A CTP is an educational initiative designed to support students with exceptionalities as they transition from high school to postsecondary education, employment, and independent living. CTP programs are structured to aid students with intellectual disabilities who aim to pursue further education, career and technical training, and independent living within a higher education institution, all with the ultimate goal of preparing for gainful employment.

Our program aims to provide a holistic approach to assist students in acquiring the skills, knowledge, and resources needed to successfully navigate the transition to becoming self-sufficient young adults. The ultimate goal of the CTP is to empower students to achieve their educational, vocational, and personal aspirations. Entering into a CTP program will help students gain confidence and promote their full participation in society as independent and productive individuals.

B.E.A.R.S recognize and support the potential of every student, regardless of their disability. It involves fostering an inclusive environment where students with disabilities are provided with the necessary accommodations and support to succeed academically and personally. B.E.A.R.S acknowledge that individuals with disabilities have unique strengths, talents, and capabilities that can contribute to their success in college and beyond. It involves challenging stereotypes and biases that may underestimate their potential and instead focusing on their abilities and potential for growth. B.E.A.R.S entails providing students with the resources, accommodations, and support they need to thrive. Success can be defined in various ways, from reaching personal milestones, excelling academically, to career development, engaging in community activities, and achieving independence.

Admission Criteria

  • A documented intellectual/developmental disability that impacts progression in a standard curriculum in pursuit of a postsecondary degree or certificate
  • Formerly or currently eligible for special education and related services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)
  • Must be between the ages of 18-28 upon admission to the program
  • Must have received a certificate of completion or equivalent from a high school program
  • Can display appropriate college and classroom behavior (no behavior plans addressed in their intake paperwork)
  • Can manage basic self-care skills
  • Must have sufficient emotional and independent stability
  • Must demonstrate a desire to gain employment and personal independence
  • Have a minimum reading level of fourth grade
  • Must demonstrate the ability to conduct a successful interview independently and without parental interference
  • Must be comfortable around large groups of people
  • Must be independent in handling their own medication, specialized dietary and/or medical needs while on campus. NOTE: BRCC staff take no responsibility for specialized diets, medication administration, or medical needs.
  • Must be self-motivated and adhere to the policies regarding attendance and participation in coursework within the program and audited BRCC courses.
  • Must be able to utilize technology (i.e., cell phone, laptop, computer, etc.) with little to no support
  • Based on the interview and review of records, the applicant must have the potential to successfully achieve his/her goals within the context of the program

Who is eligible for financial aid given the changes to the Higher Education Opportunity Act (HEOA)?

There are four criteria that must be met:

  • The student must have exited their high school. This means that students who are dually enrolled, or still receiving services from their high school, cannot receive financial aid.
  • The student has to have an intellectual disability as defined by the HEOA. The definition reads:
    • A student—
      • With a cognitive impairment, characterized by significant limitations in—
        • intellectual and cognitive functioning; and
        • adaptive behavior as expressed in conceptual, social, and practical adaptive skills; and
      • Who is currently, or was formerly, eligible for a free appropriate public education under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.
  • The student and their family must demonstrate financial need via the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). All students who wish to access financial aid must complete the FAFSA. (https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa).
  • The student must be attending an approved CTP. This means the college or university hosting the program has received approval from the Department of Education to offer financial aid to eligible students. A list of approved CTPs can be found here: Louisiana's Approved CTP

If you would like to be considered for the B.E.A.R.S program, please complete an interest form at:

B.E.A.R.S Program Interest Form

Our applications for 2025-2026 will open in August. Completed applications are reviewed by the BEARS Program Admissions staff for eligibility. Interviews will be offered to applicants based on meeting requirements as determined by their application and the BEARS Admission staff. An interview does not guarantee entry into the program, but applicants must attend an interview to be considered for admission.