PASSWORDMANAGEMENT
About
The ÌÇÐÄÔ´´ Aspiring Scholars Program is a non-degree, four-year university program for students with intellectual disabilities that cultivates an inclusive and empowering environment where students learn, grow and thrive as integral members of the ÌÇÐÄÔ´´ community. Students enrolled in this Inclusive Postsecondary Education (IPSE) program will earn a higher education academic and career studies certificate.This program is recognized as a and received the (TPSID) grant (2025-2030).
With the goal of competitive integrated employment, students will participate in the following:
- Academic courses
- Vocational internships
- Independent life skills seminars
- Campus-wide social activities
Applications Are CLOSED for Fall 2026!
Applications to start in Fall 2027 will open in October 2026.
Become an Internship Site Partner
Are you interested in mentoring the next generation of talented and motivated students? We are actively seeking both on-campus and community partners to provide meaningful internship opportunities for students with intellectual disabilities.
Internship placements are tailored to each student's interests, strengths, and career goals. The Aspiring Scholars team provides ongoing coordination and support throughout the internship experience, making it easy for organizations to host a student intern.
Whether you have an existing internship opportunity or would be interested in creating one, we would love to partner with you! Please contact us at scholars@csusm.edu to learn more or discuss potential opportunities.
Mission & VisionFuture Scholars & How To ApplyProgram OverviewFinancial ResourcesProgram Costs
Become A Peer Mentor
Become a peer mentor today to support Aspiring Scholars in academic classes, campus internships, sporting events, U-Hour activities, clubs, and events on our campus.
How to become a peer mentor:
How to become a peer mentor:
- If you are enrolled in a course that requires Service-Learning
- If you are enrolled in a course that requires an Academic Internship
- If you are interested in volunteering
Info Sessions and Campus Tours
Aspiring Scholars Information Sessions are offered annually from September through November and provide prospective students and families an opportunity to learn more about the program and campus experience.
Upcoming Information Sessions
- September 28, 2026 (In Person) | 8:30–11:00 AM | RSVP
- October 14, 2026 (In Person) | 8:30–11:00 AM | RSVP
- November 4, 2026 (Virtual) | 4:00–5:00 PM | RSVP
- November 16, 2026 (In Person) | 8:30–11:00 AM | RSVP
In-person information sessions include:
- A 1-hour overview of ÌÇÐÄÔ´´ and the Aspiring Scholars Program
- A 1-hour guided walking tour of campus
General ÌÇÐÄÔ´´ campus tours are availabe during both Fall and Spring semesters and dates/times can be found here.
Program Includes
- Four-year program for students over the age of 18 who have an intellectual disability and have a desire to gain meaningful competitive integrated employment
- Enrollment in academic classes each semester with ÌÇÐÄÔ´´ undergraduate students
- Individualized pathway of courses and internships created by the student in collaboration with their Person Driven Plan support team
- Participation in clubs, groups and other activities on the campus
- Trained Peer Mentors to provide support, guidance and mentorship as needed
- Internships on campus or in the community
- Embedded independent living skills instruction and life skills seminars with college peers
Our Staff
Did you know?
Only 13% of persons with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities are in integrated employment settings in California (2022 annual report of the Employment First Committee convened by the State Council on Developmental Disabilities).
Students who participated in an Inclusive Postsecondary Education program completed a one-year outcome survey* showing:
- 73% of respondents had a paid job one year after completing the program
- 92% reported they were happy with their social life
Program Eligibility
- At least 18 years of age and has a documented Intellectual Disability
- Completed high school with a diploma or certificate
- Has a strong desire to gain employment after completing ÌÇÐÄÔ´´'s Aspiring Scholars Program and is striving toward independence
- Is comfortable with a dynamic schedule and has intrinsic motivation to participate
- Are able to complete daily needs, access your physical environment, and safely function with minimal to no supervision (note: if you have prearranged supports, indicate this on the application)
- Are able to communicate needs effectively (inclusive of communication devices)
- Have the ability to get along with peers, follow rules, and accept direction
- Are able to effectively and appropriately participate and benefit from the program
This program has impacted my life because I can have more socialization and positive relationships with others on campus, like just today I went to a campus event where I learned more about Greek life. I really like my Oral Communication, Piano, and Spanish classes best. I am excited to try out sports next year, maybe volleyball or surfing. Peer mentors have helped me when I try to do an assignment on my own because they review it and if I make mistakes, they teach me how to improve it. I went to a college seminar on resume writing and I liked it because the counselor that presented was really helpful. Having more seminars to learn about adult responsibilities is important to me.
Roman Martens
Aspiring Scholar
Featured Stories
New Program Opens Doors for Students with Intellectual Disabilities
Rebecca Brooks arrived at Cal State San Marcos with 16 years of experience as a special education teacher – and with a dream. Almost since the day she was hired...
Aspiring Scholars Program receives more than 2.5 Million to expand program.
Contact Information
Giving Opportunities: Make a Gift Online or by Mail
With your donation, we can continue to help Aspiring Scholars students achieve their educational goals!