Admissions

Prospective students in Sooner Works must meet the following criteria:

• The applicant must be between the ages of 18-26 at the time of acceptance and have completed secondary education. 
• The applicant must have a significant intellectual (cognitive) and/or developmental disability that interferes with their academic performance according to the American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (AAIDD).
• The applicant must have sufficient emotional and independent stability to participate in all aspects of Sooner Works.
  
• The applicant must have functional understanding of literacy (writing/composition) and reading skills, basic mathematics, and ability to use a calculator. 
• The applicant must be their own guardian (no guardianship by parents or caregivers).
  
• The applicant should be able to sit through 90-minute academic courses and function independently in campus settings (e.g., class, work settings, dorms).
  
• The applicant must demonstrate the ability to accept responsibility for his/her actions and maintain respect for him/herself and others.
  
• The applicant must have no history of disruptive or aggressive behaviors. Note: Sooner Works does not have the personnel necessary to manage behavioral issues.
  
• The applicant must be independent in handling his/her own medication, specialized dietary and/or medical needs, as well as in the use of his/her own medication. Note: There is no personnel available to manage/administer medication. The Sooner Works staff takes no responsibility for specialized diets or medical needs.
  
• The applicant must demonstrate the desire to attend Sooner Works and adhere to the Sooner Works policies regarding attendance and participation in the coursework and typical University of Oklahoma classes as well as Functional Academics, Leisure Skills, and Independent Living Skills.
  
• The applicant must have the potential to successfully achieve his/her goals within the context of the Sooner Works program content and setting.
  

In preparation for the application, please gather:

• the student’s IEP or 504.
• high school transcript (unofficial transcript is acceptable at this stage).
• the names/emails of three references who can endorse the student.

The application will ask about the student’s past jobs, education, and experiences being independent away from home (ex. summer camp). We will also ask for a brief description of medical history (including any disability diagnoses) and any significant conditions that may affect participation in classroom, social, or recreational activities at college. A 3-minute video of the candidate explaining why college is important to them will also be required.

There are limited spots in Sooner Works for new students each academic year. Applying to the program includes an online application that is reviewed by the Application Screening Committee. There is a $25 application fee. Potential candidates and their families will be invited for an in-person interview with Sooner Works staff. Once final decisions are made, Sooner Works will notify students that they have been recommended for admission to the University of Oklahoma. A submitted application or interview does not guarantee acceptance to Sooner Works. The decision to recommend for selection to the program will be made by the Sooner Works Screening Committee; the decision for acceptance will be made by The University of Oklahoma in their best judgment and in the best interest of the applicant. OU Admissions requires a separate $40 application fee for their own processing.