ClemsonLIFE™

ClemsonLIFE Traditional Program

• About the Program

  The ClemsonLIFE Program offers a two-year Basic Program that incorporates functional academics, independent living, employment, social/leisure skills, and health/wellness skills in a public university setting with the goal of producing self-sufficient young adults. Additionally, the ClemsonLIFE Program offers a two-year Advanced Program for students that have demonstrated the ability to safely live independently, sustain employment, and socially integrate during the Basic Program. The Advanced Program progresses with an emphasis on workplace experience, community integration, and independent living with transitionally reduced supports. Students who successfully complete the Basic and/or Advanced program will receive a corresponding certificate of post-secondary education.

  We Believe

  • Young adults go through a similar development process that requires certain activities, experience and support.
  • Young adults must develop skills and an understanding about themselves and the world around them in order to fully participate in society and to become successful, contributing adults.
  • Higher education is a vehicle for self-empowerment and access to social networks, employment, and independence.
  • Group membership provides essential motivation and support for learning and participation in community life.
    
    

  ClemsonLIFE Courses

  • Functional Mathematics, Banking and Budgeting
  • Functional Literacy
  • Independent Living Skills
  • Social Skills
  • Self Advocacy and Safety
  • Health and Wellness
  • Employment Skills
  • Supervised Job Placement/Internship
    
    

  Independent Living

  • Students live in four bedroom apartments on campus
  • Supervision is provided by an on-site Independent Living Assistant (ILA) in each student apartment
  • Independent living skills are taught in class, at the apartments, and then reinforced by ILAs
  • Students are taught how to utilize public transportation
  • Time management, prioritizing, and scheduling
    
    

  Counseling

  • Counselors assist students and resident assistants with independent living skills
  • Weekly group counseling sessions with students
  • Individual counseling session available, upon student request
    
    

  Employment

  • Job placements (on and off campus) with on-site supervision
  • Weekly jobsite performance evaluations
  • Classroom instruction on employment skills

  Employment Resources Provided

  • Each student will be given an electronic copy of the following upon graduation: resume, reference list, and other resources (i.e. tips for an interview, how to deposit a paper check, common employment accommodations)

  Socialization/Leisure

  • Enrollment in Clemson University leisure skills course
  • Involvement in various campus student organizations
  • Community involvement
  • Interaction with Clemson University students from all across campus
  • Mentor Program
    
    

  Health and Wellness

  • Nutrition and cooking classes
  • Personal fitness training
  • Personal and universal hygiene practices
  • Characteristics of healthy relationships
    
    
• Applications and Admissions
  • Documentation of an intellectual disability, with significant limitations in intellectual functioning and in adaptive behavior, as defined by the American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (AAIDD). “Intellectual disability is a disability characterized by significant limitations both in intellectual functioning and in adaptive behavior as expressed in conceptual, social, and practical adaptive skills. This disability originates before the age of 18” (AAIDD)
  • Primary disability must be cognitive, not behavioral or emotional
  • Was eligible for IDEA services while in school; has/had an IEP
  • Has the ability to independently self-administer and manage medication, specialized dietary, and/or medical needs. Note: ClemsonLIFE personnel are not available to manage/administer medication and take no responsibility for specialized diets or medical needs
  • Reading ability is functional – able to respond to emails, texts, and read functional lists such as a grocery list (approx. 3rd grade). 
  • Has basic mathematics understanding; can use a calculator
  • Can utilize technology (cell phone, laptop, etc.) on a basic level
  • Age is between 18-26 years old upon admission to the program
  • Demonstrates independence, motivation, and stability
  • Can function independently for a sustained period of time
  • Likes to be around people; sociable
  • Able to handle changes in routine; can be flexible in fluctuating circumstances
  • Not defiant toward authority; can take direction
  • Demonstrates the ability to accept personal responsibility for actions and maintains respect for self and others
  • Likes to learn
  • Has the potential to be successful in competitive employment situations. We highly recommend employment, or at least volunteer, experience before entering the program.
  • Has the desire and motivation to participate in a college experience
  • Has parents who will support his/her independence 

   Application Process

  • We recommend prospective students and families attend a program open house. This one-day program will allow students and families to determine if the ClemsonLIFE program will be a good fit.
  • Complete the online application.
  • Select payment portal tab and pay application fee.
  • Eligible applicants may be invited to attend an on-campus interview during the months of January and February. Decisions are released in March.
  • The application for 2025-2026 ClemsonLIFE Traditional Program is closed.  
  • The application for 2026-2027 ClemsonLIFE Traditional Program Application opens on June 1, 2025, and will close December 1, 2025. – Apply here!

   Admission Requirements

  • Psychological Report within the last 3 years (tests include: IQ, Adaptive, Social/Emotional)
  • Transcript
  • Most recent IEP
  • Behavior Records (if no records exist, please send a letter from school on official letterhead stating so)
  • 3 Letters of Recommendation 
  • Medical Physical
• Open House

  Open House dates:

  • October 25, 2025 and March 7, 2026 
  • Fall Open House registration will open September 1, 2025. Once registration is closed, you are welcome to email clemsonlife@clemson.edu to be added to the waitlist.
  • Spring Open House registration will open February 1, 2026. Once registration is closed, you are welcome to email clemsonlife@clemson.edu to be added to the waitlist.
• Daily Schedule

  Monday and Wednesday

  • 8:30 a.m. – LIFE: Applied Math / Grocery Shopping
  • 10:00 a.m. – LIFE: Advising
  • 12:00 p.m. – Lunch
  • 1:00 p.m. – Social Skills/Internship
  • 5:30 p.m. – Dinner

  Tuesday and Thursday

  • 9:00 a.m. – LIFE: Apartment Class
  • 11:00 a.m. – LIFE: Self Advocacy
  • 12:00 p.m. – Lunch
  • 1:30 p.m. – Employment/ Technology
  • 4:00 p.m. – Workouts
  • 5:30 p.m. – Dinner

  Friday

  • 8:30 a.m. – Community Involvement / Explore Clemson
  • 12:00 p.m. – Lunch
  • 1:00 p.m. – Leisure Skills/Internship

  Friday Afternoon – Sunday Evening

  • Activities, Social, Leisure, and Recreation Events/Outings Planned by Independent Living Assistants.

  *This is a sample schedule that is subject to change.

  Social Leisure/Recreational Opportunities

  All students attend a Clemson University traditional one to four hours course one to two days per week. They attend a specialized fitness class at Fike Recreation center one to two times a week. Mentors also meet with students on a weekly basis to support and encourage LIFE students. The 650+ volunteers will be available for a plethora of activities with our students.

  • Tailgates and football games on Saturdays
  • Soccer, basketball, baseball, volleyball and other sporting events
  • Intramural Unified Sports
  • Students are buddies to young children with disabilities at TOP Soccer and Challenger Baseball.
  • Students have the opportunity to participate on the Tiger Sharks Swim Team and Equine Therapy.
  • Campus-wide activities such as movies, concerts, shows, First Friday parade, homecoming events, etc.
  • Students join and attend university clubs and student organizations functions.
• Calendar

  The ClemsonLIFE Program follows the University academic calendar, except for University exam weeks.

  Fall 2025

  • July 21 – Tiger Town Tour (new incoming students)
  • August 13 – Hospitality Certificate Program Move In
  • August 14 - Hospitality Certificate Program Orientation
  • August 14 - Advanced Program Move In
  • August 15 - Advanced Program Orientation
  • August 17- Basic Program Move In
  • August 18 – Basic Program Orientation
  • August 20 - Fall Classes Begin
  • September 1 – Labor Day – University Closed
  • October 13-14 –Fall Break
  • October 18 – ClemsonLIFE Family/Alumni Tailgate
  • October 25 – ClemsonLIFE Fall Open House
  • November 26-28 - Thanksgiving Break
  • December 5 - Last Day of Classes
  • December 6 – January 6 - Holiday Break

  Spring 2026

  • January 7 - Spring Classes Begin
  • January 19 - MLK Holiday - University Closed (no classes)
  • March 7 – Spring Open House
  • March 16-20 - Spring Break
  • April 3 – ClemsonLIFE Talent Show
  • April 24 - Last Day of Classes
  • April 25 - Move Out Day and ClemsonLIFE Graduation Ceremony
• Frequently Asked Questions

  What is the mission of the ClemsonLIFE program?

  ClemsonLIFE (Learning is for Everyone) offers a collegiate experience that prepares young men and women with intellectual disabilities for competitive employment and independent living through a combination of academic coursework and career exploration.

  How does the ClemsonLIFE Program differ from other post-secondary opportunities?

  ClemsonLIFE core principles support the concept that enhancing academic, social, employment, and life skills will better prepare students with disabilities to lead full and productive lives. It is a comprehensive residential college experience designed to raise the expectations and skill levels of the students admitted to the program.

  Who will be teaching the coursework?

  Traditional college courses are taught by Clemson faculty, while functional academics are taught by staff with teacher certification in the area of special education.

  What are admission criteria?

  An applicant must be between the ages of 18 and 26 years old upon admission to the program and have an intellectual disability characterized by significant limitations both in intellectual functioning and in adaptive behavior as expressed in conceptual, social, and practical adaptive skills. Applicants must have a strong desire to become an independent adult and possess sufficient emotional stability and maturity to successfully participate in the program.

  How many applicants are offered admission each year?

  Twelve full time students will be admitted each year for fall semester.

  Is this a residential or commuter program?

  ClemsonLIFE is a residential program providing instruction and practical experience in independent living skills. All students enrolled in the Basic Program live in on-campus apartments under the supervision on an Independent Living Assistant (ILA). Students in the Advanced Program live in apartments off-campus, and are closely monitored by Transition Specialists who assist them with independent living skills.

  What is the length of the program?

  The Basic Program is designed to be completed in two years. Admittance into the Advanced Program is by invite-only, and provides two additional years of transition support to help facilitate independent living.

  What kind of certificate do students get?

  Students successfully completing the program will receive a certificate of post-secondary education (not an accredited college degree).

  Will there be student mentors?

  Each ClemsonLIFE student is provided an individual peer student mentor drawn from throughout the campus. Mentors assist ClemsonLIFE students both academically and socially, as well as helping them fully integrate into the college community.

  Are there opportunities for scholarships or grants?

  There are a variety of different funding opportunities including FAFSA, Pell grants, South Carolina Commission on Higher Education grants, Vocational Rehabilitation tuition stipends, ClemsonLIFE grant-in-aids, and other private scholarships.

  How do I schedule a campus tour?

  All interested applicants should attend one of our open houses that are held each semester. Sessions are typically offered in March and October. To reserve a space at an open house session, please register online. To schedule a campus tour, please visit the University campus tours page and fill out the registration form.

• Costs

  ClemsonLIFE is dedicated to providing a structured, high-quality, well-supervised program focused on vocational and independent living for young adults with disabilities. The cost per-semester is listed below for the 2025/2026 school year

  ClemsonLIFE Fees (Basic Program)
  The below fees are invoiced directly from the ClemsonLIFE program:

  Program Fees
  Covers costs associated with the ClemsonLIFE program (i.e. Operation Costs and Staff/Instructor Salaries) - $16,000

  Student Budget Fees
  Covers apartment groceries, laundry, attendance at sporting or theater events, field trips, etc. - $1,575 

  University Fees
  The below fees are paid directly to Clemson University and are included on the University bill:

  Housing
  Covers rent, utilities, cable and Internet. All students currently live in Douthit Hills apartments on campus. - $5,769

  Academic Fee
  Covers tuition fees. All students are required to enroll in a one credit hour Clemson University leisure skills class.

  • $630/credit hour for SC Residents
  • $1,782/credit hour for Non-Residents

  Meal Plan (Required)
  The ClemsonLIFE meal plan is designed specifically for the ClemsonLIFE students for dining hall access.

  • $2,212 per semester (150 meals + 200 paw points)

   Additional Fees

  • Miscellaneous Fees - $476 per semester
  • Health Fee - $182 per semester 

  *All fees reflect the costs for 2025/2026 and are subject to change.

  ---

  ClemsonLIFE Fees (Advanced Program)
  The below fees are invoiced directly from the ClemsonLIFE program:

  Program Fees
  Covers costs associated with the ClemsonLIFE program (i.e. Operation Costs and Staff/Instructor Salaries) - $11,000

  Student Budget Fees
  Students work in the Clemson Community and with ClemsonLIFE staff to define a budget that reflects the student's monthly income – Varies per student

  University Fees
  The below fees are paid directly to Clemson University and are included on the University bill:

  Academic Fee
  Covers tuition fees. All students are required to enroll in a one credit hour Clemson University leisure skills class.

  • $630/credit hour for SC Residents
  • $1,782/credit hour for Non-Residents

  Meal Plan (Optional)

  • $1,417 per semester (75 meals + 300 paw points)
  • $833 per semester (30 meals + 300 paw points)

  Additional Fees

  • Miscellaneous Fees - $476 per semester
  • Health Fee - $182 per semester 

  *All fees reflect the costs for 2025/2026 and are subject to change.

• Financial Aid

  Financial aid is available for students with intellectual disabilities attending post-secondary programs. The following are resources to explore:

  Federal Student Aid: Students may be eligible for Federal Pell Grants receiving up to $7,395 per year. Here are resources on the steps to filling out the FAFSA form and things you need to know before filling out the FAFSA form.

  South Carolina Commission on Higher Education- Transition Program

  • South Carolina Commission on Higher Education- Transition Program Scholarship: $15,000. If you are a South Carolina resident we encourage you to complete your FAFSA so you will receive the CTP scholarship from the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education. This scholarship is NOT need based. The requirements to receive scholarship funds are 1) must be a US citizen or legal permanent resident, 2) a legal SC resident, and 3) be enrolled in a College Transition Program.
  • South Carolina Commission on Higher Education- Transition Program Grant-in-Aid: up to $10,000. If you are a South Carolina resident we encourage you to complete your FAFSA so you may be eligible to receive the CTP grant-in-aid from the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education. The requirements to receive grant-in-aid funds are 1) must be a US citizen or legal permanent resident, 2) a legal SC resident, 3) be enrolled in a College Transition Program, 4) completed the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), and 5) be considered to have ‘need’ as determined by Title IV.

  South Carolina Vocational Rehabilitation Department: Students may be eligible for sponsorships.

  Some independent organizations and groups have offered scholarship money to select students.

  Ruby's Rainbow: Our goal at Ruby's Rainbow is to grant scholarships to adults with Down Syndrome seeking post-secondary education, enrichment or vocational classes who feel that higher education is the right choice for them.

  O’Neill Tabani Enrichment Fund: The mission of the O’Neill Tabani Enrichment Fund is to offer financial assistance to young adults with Down Syndrome – 18 and older – who are continuing to enrich their lives by taking classes or enrolling in post-secondary educational programs.

  CSS Profile: The CSS form is not mandatory, but if you would like to be considered by ClemsonLIFE for Grant-in-aids you will have to fill out the form. Clemson University’s School Code is 5111. Cost for the CSS Profile is $25 for the initial application and one college or program report. Each additional college report is $16. More information can be found on the College Board website.

  Online Guide to Scholarships and Resources for Students With Disabilities

• Resources

  College is not for everyone. However, many students desire a college experience, including students with intellectual disabilities. It is for this reason that many colleges and universities now offer Comprehensive Postsecondary Transition Programs, like ClemsonLIFE. These programs offer inclusive social activities; participation in college courses; along with instruction on independent living skills, employment skills, and social skills with the goal of independent living and gainful employment to the greatest extent possible for each student.

  Think College is a great resource for families of students with intellectual disabilities considering college. For a searchable database of Available Comprehensive Postsecondary Transition Programs, see ThinkCollege Database.

  Online Resources

  • Clemson University Student Disability Services
  • Clemson University College of Education
  • South Carolina Vocational Rehabilitation Department
  • South Carolina Commission for the Blind
  • ED.gov – Federal Pell Grant Program
  • ED.gov – Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) Program
  • National Down Syndrome Society
• ClemsonLIFE Research

  Books/Chapters

  1. Ryan, J. B., Randall, K. & Walters, E. (in press). How to Create an Inclusive Post-Secondary Education Program: A Framework for Supporting Students with Intellectual Disabilities on College Campuses.
  2. Randall, K., Ryan, J. B., & *Carlson, A., (2024). Students’ perception of an American post-secondary education program’s value in preparing them for employment, independent living, and social activities. In Shevlin, M. & Rose, R. (Eds.),Challenging Assumptions: Voices from Marginalised Communities (International Perspectives on Inclusive Education). 203-216. Emerald Publishing. IBSN - 1837977208.
  3. Ryan, J. B. & Mooney, P. (2024). The Special Educator’s Guide to Behavior Management. Routledge. DOI:10.4324/9781003526469
  4.  

  Journal Articles 

  1. Randall, K. N., Drew, H.*, Gilman, E. S.*, & Dixon, E. (Accepted). Employment, Assistive Technology, and Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities: A Qualitative Study. Journal of Applied Research in Intellectual Disabilities. https://www.doi.org/10.1111/jar.13306
  2. Randall, K. N., Hopkins, C. S., & Drew, H.* (2024). Menstrual Education Programs for Girls and Young Women with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities: A Systematic Review. Journal of Applied Research in Intellectual Disabilities. 37(4), 1-13. https://www.doi.org/10.1111/jar.13264
  3. Hostetter, H.*, Naser, M. Z., Randall, K. N., & Murray-Tuite, P. (2024). Evacuation preparedness and intellectual disability: Insights from a university fire drill. Journal of Building Engineering, 108578. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jobe.2024.108578
  4. Randall, K., & Ryan, J. B. (2024). What is self-determination and why it matters. Re-Thinking Behavior, 7(2), 28-35. Retrieved from: https://www.pageturnpro.com/Midwest-Symposium-for-Leadership-in-Behavior-Disorders/110520-ReThinking-Behavior-Winter-2024/flex.html#page/31
  5. Randall, K. N. & McKown, G.* (2024). Perceived impact of COVID-19 on adults with intellectual and developmental disability: A qualitative study. Journal of Intellectual Disabilities, 28(1) 118-136. https://doi.org/10.1177/17446295221146352
  6. Randall, K. N., Hirsch, S. E., & Allen, A. A. (2023). Examining the effectiveness of multimedia instruction to teach pedestrian signs to individuals with intellectual disabilities. Journal of Special Education Apprenticeship, 12(2), 79-96. https://scholarworks.lib.csusb.edu/josea/vol12/iss2/8/
  7. Randall, K. N., Bernard, J., & Durah, L. (2023). Impact of Employment Status on Quality of Life for Individuals with Intellectual or Developmental Disability. Journal of Applied Research in Intellectual Disabilities, 36(2), 270-280. https://doi.org/1111/jar.13053
  8. *Stierle, J., Ryan, J. B., Katsiyannis, A., & Mims, P. (2023). Using video prompting and modeling on mobile technology to teach daily living skills: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Advances in Neurodevelopmental Disorders, 7, 491-501. https://doi.org/10.1007/s41252-022-00273-7
  9. Ryan, J. B. (2023). Expert advice: ClemsonLIFE story. In S. Friedman (Ed.), The Essential Guide for Families with Down Syndrome. (pp. 160-165). Peavine Press.
  10. *Randall, K. N., Ryan, J. B., Hirsch, S., Allen, A. (2022). A Self-Monitoring Intervention to Improve the self-determination of individuals with intellectual and developmental disability in a post-secondary educational program. Focus on Autism and Other Developmental Disabilities. 38(2), 124-136. https://doi.org/10.1177/10883576221121637
  11. *Randall, K. N., Ryan, J. B., *Stierle, J. N. *Walters (2021). Meal planner application efficacy for increasing meal planning independence in individuals with intellectual disability. Education and Training in Autism and Developmental Disabilities. 56(2), 225- 239. https://www.proquest.com/openview/01c4c6b8f932139c791779a8d1613788/1?pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=2032023
  12. *Walters, S., *Stierle, J., *Stockwell, D., *Carlson, A., & Ryan, J.B., (2021). Efficacy of video prompting using mobile technology to teach employment tasks to individuals with intellectual disability. Journal of Inclusive Postsecondary Education. 3(1), 1-21. https://doi.org/10.1080/21532974.2021.1995796
  13. *Randall, K. N., Ryan, J. B., *Stierle, J. N. *Walters, & S. Bridges, W. (2021). Evaluating and Enhancing Driving Skills for Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities through Simulator Training.Focus on Autism and Other Developmental Disabilities, 36(4), 191-200. https://doi.org/10.1177/1088357620985458
  14. *Randall, K. N., *Johnson, F., *Adams, S. E., *Kiss, C. W., & Ryan, J. B. (2020). Use of iPhone task analysis application to increase employment related chores for individuals with intellectual disabilities. Journal of Special Education Technology, 35(1), 26-36. https://doi.org/10.1177/0162643419836410
  15. Ryan, J. B., *Randall, K.N., *Walters, E., & *Morash-MacNeil, V. (2019). Employment and independent living outcomes of a mixed model post-secondary education program for young adults with intellectual disabilities. Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation, 50, 61-72. https://doi.org/10.3233/JVR-180988
  16. *Morash-MacNeil, V., *Johnson, F., & Ryan, J. B. (2018). Effectiveness of assistive technology for individuals with intellectual disability in the workplace: A meta-analysis. Journal of Special Education Technology, 33(1), 15-26. https://doi.org/10.1177/0162643417729166
  17. Collins, J. C., Ryan, J.B., Katsiyannis, A., Barrett, D. & Yell, M. (2014). Use of portable electronic assistive technology to improve independent job performance of young adults with an intellectual disability. Journal of Special Education Technology, 29(3),15-30. https://doi.org/10.1177/016264341402900302
  18. Hawkins, B.L., Stegall, J.B., Weber, M. & Ryan J.B. (2012). The Influence of a Yoga Exercise Program for Young Adults with Intellectual Disabilities. International Journal of Yoga, 5, 151-156. https://doi.org/10.4103%2F0973-6131.98244
  19. Hughes, E., Green, J.  & Ryan, J.B. (2011). The use of assistive technology to improve time management skills of a young adult with an intellectual disability. Journal of Special Education Technology, 26(3), 13-20. https://doi.org/10.1177/016264341102600302

  (* Indicates co-author was a student at time of preparation)

• General Information

  ClemsonLIFE | 101 Gantt Circle  | Suite G-01 | Clemson University | Clemson, SC 29634 | 864-656-0501 | clemsonlife@g.clemson.edu