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315.443.​4058 taishoffcenter@syr.edu 300 Huntington Hall, Syracuse NY 13244
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2-Year Program for International Students

The InclusiveU 2-Year Program at Syracuse University has been designed to support students with intellectual and developmental disability in full participation at Syracuse University. Similar to the transition program, this program aims to fully integrate students into campus life to participate in all aspects of academic, social, and extracurricular activities. In addition, students live in the residence halls among their peers to provide a fully immersive college experience that cultivates independence and a strong sense of community.

The pace of this program is intended to meet the 2-year limit of the J-Visa. Our aim is to ensure that students utilizing the J-Visa can fully immerse themselves in all the opportunities Syracuse University has to offer. A sample academic plan an international student could follow would be:

  • Auditing five courses towards a major in the initial three semesters on campus
  • Supplementing learning with four optional electives across any of the disciplines offered at the university
  • Engaging in a semester-long internship to build skills towards a chosen career
  • In addition to academic opportunity, a student can select from over 300 clubs and organizations to join, and access various events or activities hosted by athletics and the student experience office

Most InclusiveU students audit their courses towards a Syracuse University non-credit certificate in a major of their choice. Students have access to the full course catalogue and select classes that align with their area of focus as well as electives to enhance their knowledge. In the internships, students are guided to connect academic theory to practice, in practical work placements related to their academic course work. This structure not only fosters academic growth but also allows opportunity to develop essential work skills for a successful transition into a desired career upon graduation.

InclusiveU students receive support while on campus through InclusiveU program staff, Student Support Assistants or Residential Mentors to aid in navigating classes, social experiences, and college living.  Students can select a maximum level of support while participating in classes and extracurriculars on campus, and for life in the residence hall. Students can receive up to 40 hours of academic support a week in their courses, and up to 20 hours of support per week in the residence halls. The support received on campus is individualized to the student, to help them meet their goals and work on skills they have identified as areas of growth.