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Transition Roadmap: From School to Adulthood

Transition Roadmap: From School to Adulthood

Growing up and becoming an adult can be exciting but also a bit scary. This is especially true for students with learning or developmental disabilities and their families. This page will help students, ages 14 to 21, and their families learn what to do next as they get ready for adult life.

The community offers a lot of help to make sure no child or parent gets confused when figuring out the system. This page will show you the important steps, called Milestones, for each age. This way, young people and those who care for them will know what to expect. You can find help for special needs, watch videos that show you how to do things, and get useful toolkits to help you stay on track.

Key Milestones & What to Expect

Age 14

Making a Transition Plan for a student's Individualized Education Program (IEP) is a team effort. It should show what the young person wants for their future. We need to think about what the student likes, dislikes, is interested in, and what they are good at. All these things should be considered when planning for their future in three main areas: school, jobs, and living on their own.

Age 16

When a student with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (I/DD) turns 16, they can start getting formal transition planning through their school. This planning happens in their Individualized Education Program (IEP) and with help from state agencies. A transition plan can include job training, learning life skills, joining community activities, and getting ready for college or work after high school. In New Jersey, the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services (DVRS) works with schools, families, and students to create a plan that matches the student’s goals for their future.

Age 18

When a child with a disability turns 18 in New Jersey, they legally become an adult, which means they now make their own decisions. Parents can no longer automatically sign school papers, give medical consent, or make choices for them — this change is called the “transfer of rights.” This can feel stressful, especially if the young adult still needs extra help or support, but learning about this change early and using helpful resources can make the transition easier for both you and your child.

Age 21

Turning 21 is a big change for young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities because the services they receive for health care, housing, jobs, and community life may shift. Having a clear transition plan that focuses on your needs and goals can help you understand your choices and feel more in control. When you start planning early, learn new skills, and stay involved in decisions, turning 21 doesn’t have to be confusing. It can be a positive moment where you feel ready to make choices and take charge of your future.

Planning Tools

Find helpful tools to make sure young people and their caregivers know what to expect and how to be ready!

Additional Resources

The Arc Go Bag - This guide is made to help you be the best helper you can be for your loved one with a developmental disability. It has a simple collection of important information about different topics so you can be ready!

Use the links below to find other helpful, important information:

  • Financial
  • Employment
  • Healthcare
  • Voting 

Important Contacts

If you have questions, reach out to these resources for support