Frequently Asked Questions: KAP Circle of Support

KAP's Circle of Support program offers comprehensive wraparound services designed to help autistic college students thrive in their academic, professional, and community lives. Through Circle of Support, students receive personalized support to enhance their organization, time management, self-advocacy, emotional well-being, social relationships, and career readiness. The goal is to build their confidence and skills for greater independence. The Circle of Support program includes mentoring, counseling, life coaching, campus engagement, social connection events, and evidence-based, neuro-affirming programming. Ultimately, the aim is to empower students to achieve their personal, academic, and professional goals.

KAP is an academic support program that follows the schedule of WKU. KAP operates Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Students participate in active programming from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM, which is always coordinated with their class schedules to ensure their availability. Please note that summer hours may vary each year based on the university's operating schedule.

Students are encouraged to develop the following independent living and self-management skills to support a successful college experience:

• Independently order and take prescribed medications.
• Wake up independently and attend classes on time.
• Manage a debit card and personal spending responsibly.
• Keep a dorm room clean and organized.
• Independently complete daily personal hygiene routines.
• Wash and care for clothing regularly.
• Prepare simple meals.
• Balance work, academic responsibilities, and leisure time effectively.
• Transition independently from preferred activities to complete responsibilities during free time.
• Maintain a consistent and healthy sleep schedule.

Yes. Before you can apply to the KAP Circle of Support, you must first be admitted to Western Kentucky University. Acceptance into WKU is the first step in the Circle of Support admissions process, as Circle of Support is designed to provide services to degree-seeking WKU students. Once you have been admitted to WKU, you may complete the Circle of Support application and participate in the Circle of Support program's interview process to determine whether the program is a good fit for your needs.

https://apply.wku.edu/portal/login

Yes, KAP serves students who transfer to WKU from other institutions as well as those who begin their academic journey at WKU and later decide to apply for services. We also support students who receive an autism diagnosis while attending college. For more information about the application and interview process, please visit our Prospective Student page.

An interest meeting is a chance for prospective students and their families to learn more about the overall program. During this meeting, a member of the KAP team will explain the available services and supports. Students and families are encouraged to ask questions about the program's structure and expectations. The meeting will also cover topics such as students' interests. The interest meeting can take place in-person or via Zoom.

During the KAP Circle of Support interview process, the main objective is to understand each student better by exploring their goals, strengths, interests, and areas where they may need additional support. The KAP team seeks students who are motivated to attend college, open to receiving help, and eager to engage actively in their college experience at KAP and WKU. Additionally, the interview provides an opportunity for students and their families to ask questions and learn more about KAP, WKU, and the South Central Kentucky community.

Yes, students who are not accepted into the program are welcome to reapply. They do not need to attend another interest meeting; however, they will need to request a new interview packet to provide updated information. The student and their family must also participate in another interview.

Yes, students who have previously withdrawn from KAP Circle of Support services and wish to return may reapply to the program. To learn more about the reapplication process, students may contact KAP at 270-745-4232.

Prospective WKU students should sign up for a tour as soon as possible. Tours begin at the Eva and Jim Martens Alumni Center, where the admissions staff give a short presentation. Visit WKU’s admission website to schedule.

https://www.wku.edu/admissions/tours-faq.php

The program fee for KAP's Circle of Support is $5,000 per semester. Students and families are encouraged to explore options for covering this cost. Michele Hoskins is the Office Coordinator for CEC operations including KAP Circle of Support. To contact Michele with any billing questions, please use the following information: Email: michele.hoskins@wku.edu Phone: (270) 745-2773

Private Pay

KAP's Circle of Support team is pleased to offer a payment plan for those choosing the private pay options, with payments due at the end of each semester.

Office of Vocational Rehabilitation Services

Students are encouraged to contact their state's Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR) as soon as possible. The OVR may provide additional support to help autistic college students prepare for and secure meaningful employment. Depending on eligibility, OVR may assist with tuition and educational expenses, career counseling, job exploration, assistive technology, transportation, internship, and employment supports, and other services that facilitate a successful transition into the workforce. Students interested in OVR services should apply as early as possible, complete the eligibility process, and collaborate with a vocational rehabilitation counselor to create an individualized employment plan that aligns with their career goals.

Scholarships and Grants

Applying for scholarships and grants is one of the most effective ways to reduce college costs and minimize student loan debt. Unlike loans, scholarships and grants typically do not need to be repaid, making them excellent sources of financial assistance. Even small awards can help cover tuition, program fees, books, housing, transportation, and other educational expenses. Students are encouraged to apply for as many scholarships and grants as they qualify for, as each award can help make earning a college degree more affordable and less stressful throughout their academic journey. https://www.wku.edu/osd/

Student Loans

Both Parent PLUS Loans and private loans are available options for students and families. It is important to research these options thoroughly to determine which one best meets your financial needs. Generally, private loans may offer lower interest rates, but the best choice will depend on your individual circumstances. When applying for a loan, be sure to request the amount needed for the entire academic year, rather than just for a single semester. WKU’s FastChoice tool is a valuable resource for comparing private loan options.

https://www.wku.edu/financialaid/types/loans.php

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Supplemental Security Income

Adults with autism may qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), a federal program that provides monthly financial assistance to individuals with disabilities. Many college students on the autism spectrum can earn a degree and successfully enter the workforce. Still, these students may also qualify for SSI while attending college, particularly if their disability significantly affects their daily functioning and they meet the eligibility requirements set by the Social Security Administration (SSA). Eligibility for SSI is determined on an individual basis, as everyone's circumstances are different. Being an SSI recipient may also exempt students from the family share plan used by vocational rehabilitation services in certain states, which allows for more funding to support programs like the Kelly Autism Program. To qualify for SSI, you must be at least 18 years old, have a documented disability that meets the SSA's definition, have limited income and financial resources, and meet citizenship or qualified immigration standards. When you turn 18, the Social Security Administration evaluates your eligibility using adult disability criteria, even if you previously received benefits as a child. Start your application here: https://www.ssa.gov/ssi

Although students are not required to live on campus to participate in KAP, the majority of Circle of Support participants opt to stay in university residence halls or campus apartments. Living on campus can make it easier for students to stay connected with programming and access campus resources. KAP offers the same high level of support and engagement for commuters as it does for those who live on campus.

https://www.wku.edu/housing/

No, KAP students live in various housing options, including multiple WKU residence halls across campus, WKU apartments, and other housing options within the Bowling Green community. Students can participate in activities and supports offered through WKU Housing and Residence Life. Additionally, KAP students may request a single residence hall room as part of the Circle of Support program's support services.

https://www.wku.edu/housing/halls/index.php

WKU students have a diverse range of dining options available on campus to accommodate various tastes, schedules, and dietary needs. Students can enjoy meals at dining halls that provide all-you-care-to-eat options, including hot entrées, pizza, sandwiches, salad bars, fruits, and desserts. For those on the go between classes, campus dining locations also offer grab-and-go meals, such as wraps, snacks, yogurt, and drinks. Additionally, coffee shops and campus cafés serve coffee, breakfast sandwiches, pastries, and quick lunch choices.

https://www.wku.edu/wkurg/

The main WKU campus in Bowling Green is designed to be walkable, with residence halls, dining facilities, classrooms, libraries, and student services all located within a reasonable distance from one another. Many students prefer to walk, and there is also a campus bus system that facilitates travel between key areas on campus as well as nearby locations. Walking from one end of campus to the other typically takes about 10 to 20 minutes, depending on your destination. Additionally, ride-share services and local public transportation are available to help students reach off-campus stores, medical appointments, and community activities when necessary.

Students at Western Kentucky University who have disabilities may be eligible for academic accommodations through the Student Accessibility Resource Center (SARC). To begin the process, students should register with SARC and provide any required documentation. It’s important to note that, unlike high school, colleges offer accommodations rather than modifications. Accommodations adjust how a student accesses learning—such as providing extended testing time or a reduced-distraction testing environment—while maintaining the same course expectations. Modifications, on the other hand, change what a student is expected to learn or complete and are generally not available in college courses. https://www.wku.edu/sarc/

KAP advisors are professionals dedicated to helping Circle of Support students develop the skills needed to navigate daily college life effectively. They assist with planning, organization, time management, and follow-through. Participants in the Circle of Support program meet with their advisors at least once a week, though more frequent meetings are available as needed. KAP advisors work with students to set goals, break down assignments and responsibilities into manageable steps, and establish structured organizational systems such as calendars, checklists, and routines. They guide students in prioritizing tasks, avoiding procrastination, preventing burnout, and adjusting strategies when things aren't working. Additionally, KAP advisors support communication with professors and are generally available to help participants become more independent and confident in managing their responsibilities. The motto at KAP Circle of Support is that the student is in the driver's seat while the KAP advisor is in the passenger seat, holding the map.

FERPA, or the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, is a federal law that safeguards a student's educational records at the college level. Once a student turns 18 or enrolls in college, schools cannot share grades or other academic information with parents or any other individuals without the student's permission. This law grants college students control over their own educational information. However, they also have the option to sign a release form if they wish to grant someone, such as a parent or support person, access to their records.

https://www.wku.edu/registrar/ferpa/ferpa_students.php