How Texas Students with Disabilities Can Access Free College Support, Career Services, and Tuition Assistance
Your Complete Guide to TWC Vocational Rehabilitation Benefits for Students with 504 Plans and IEPs
This comprehensive guide walks you through every step of accessing Texas Workforce Commission college benefits—from eligibility and applications to funding and career support. Whether you're a student, parent, or educator, you'll find clear answers, actionable steps, and trusted resources to help navigate the transition from high school to college success.
Discover how Texas students with disabilities can access college funding, career support, and educational resources through TWC's Vocational Rehabilitation program.
About This Guide
This information was gathered from an online interview I did with TWC, reviewing their official website, and speaking with families who have received these benefits. Always verify current policies and procedures directly with TWC, as requirements and services may change.
The Texas Workforce Commission's Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) program is designed to help students with disabilities prepare for, find, and succeed in employment and post-secondary education.
If you currently receive special education services (through an Individualized Education Program) or 504 accommodations, TWC may help you with:
TWC VR services bridge the gap between high school supports and adult independence.
To be eligible for TWC's post-secondary and transition services, students must:
Age Requirement
Be between 14 and 22 years old
Enrollment Status
Be currently enrolled in high school, college, or a vocational training program
Documented Disability
Have a documented disability that creates a barrier to employment
Service Plan
Be receiving services under a 504 Plan or IEP (or otherwise qualify under the Americans with Disabilities Act)
Start early! The best time to begin the application process is during junior year of high school, or as early as age 14 if you have an IEP or 504 Plan. Students should aim to complete their intake and eligibility appointment before senior year ends.
Application Timeline by Grade Level
| Grade Level | Recommended Action |
|---|---|
| 8th–10th | Explore Pre-ETS programs (Pre-Employment Transition Services). Learn more about sophomore planning |
| 11th Grade | Apply for TWC Vocational Rehabilitation services |
| 12th Grade | Finalize the Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE) and prepare to start college with services in place |
Finding and contacting your local Vocational Rehabilitation office is the first step in accessing services. TWC has offices throughout Texas to serve students and families in every region.
Find Your Local Office
Use the TWC office locator to find the Vocational Rehabilitation office nearest you by entering your city, county, or zip code.
Find Your Local VR OfficeWhat to Ask When You Call
- "I'm a high school student with an IEP/504 Plan interested in college support. Can you help me schedule an intake appointment?"
- "What documents should I bring to my first appointment?"
- "How long does the application process typically take?"
Contact Your Local TWC Vocational Rehabilitation Office
Start by calling or emailing your local TWC VR office, or visit the Start My VR portal to begin the intake process.
Schedule and Attend Your Intake Appointment
A TWC counselor will meet with the student and family to:
- • Review documentation (IEP, 504, evaluations, etc.)
- • Assess whether the disability creates a barrier to future employment
- • Begin planning for college or career training
Create an Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE)
The student and counselor develop a customized plan outlining:
- • Career goals (e.g., digital marketing, welding, nursing)
- • Required services (e.g., tuition help, technology, transportation)
- • Training or degree programs that match the career goal
Once the IPE is signed, services can begin.
Receive Support Services from TWC
TWC may offer the following services depending on need and eligibility:
- • Tuition assistance and help with books, fees, or supplies
- • Adaptive technology like screen readers, speech-to-text tools, or smart pens
- • Transportation support to college or job sites
- • Career counseling, resume help, and job placement services
- • Coordination with your college's disability support services
Gather these documents before your intake appointment to help the process go smoothly:
Required Documents
Helpful Additional Documents
Tip: Don't stress if you don't have everything! Your TWC counselor can help you gather missing documents. It's better to start the process than wait until you have every single paper.
Click any question to see the answer
No, tuition assistance is not guaranteed. TWC determines services on a case-by-case basis after completing the application process and developing your Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE). Funding decisions depend on eligibility, career goals, financial need, and available resources.
Yes! You can apply for TWC VR services at any point while you're in college, as long as you're under 22 and meet the other eligibility requirements. However, starting the process earlier (during high school) often makes the transition smoother.
You may still qualify if you have medical documentation or other evidence of a disability that creates a barrier to employment. TWC can also arrange for assessments to determine eligibility if needed. Contact your local office to discuss your specific situation.
The timeline varies depending on your situation and how quickly you can provide documentation. From initial contact to having an approved IPE typically takes 2-4 months. This is why starting early (junior year) is so important!
No, TWC does not typically cover room and board, general living expenses, or meal plans. Services focus on vocational training expenses like tuition, books, technology, and transportation directly related to your career goal.
For students 18 and older, eligibility is typically based on the student's own income, not parent income, even if you're claimed as a dependent. For students under 18, parent income may be considered. Financial need is one of several factors in determining services.
Important: Tuition Support Is NOT Guaranteed
Tuition assistance and other services are determined on a case-by-case basis after you complete the application process and your Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE) is developed. TWC will review your eligibility, career goals, financial need, and available funding before making a decision. Not all applicants will receive tuition support.
If approved, TWC may pay for college-related expenses directly connected to your career goal, including:
To receive TWC funding, students must meet specific requirements:
Complete FAFSA or TASFA
Students must complete the FAFSA or TASFA first. TWC supplements��not replaces—financial aid.
Career Connection
All funded services must be directly connected to your documented career goal in your IPE.
Active Participation
Students must actively communicate with their VR counselor and make satisfactory academic progress.
Documentation
Maintain current disability documentation and provide requested academic records when needed.
TWC Vocational Rehabilitation Homepage
Learn about the full range of services offered to eligible students and job seekers with disabilities.
Start My VR Application Portal
Start the process of applying for TWC VR services online.
Texas Transition Network
Statewide hub for career planning resources and guidance from school to adulthood.
College Disability Services Directory (AHEAD)
Find your college's disability support office and learn how to request accommodations.
Ready to Build Your College Candidacy?
Understanding TWC benefits is just the first step. Work with CCMR with Ms. Thrash to create a personalized plan that maximizes your opportunities for post-secondary success and ensures you have the support, resources, and strategy to thrive in college and beyond.