Individualized Transition Plans (ITP) The ITP is a section of the IEP that outlines transition goals and services for the student with disability. The IDEA requires that all students must have an ITP by the age of 16. The ITP is the template for mapping out short-term to long-term adult outcomes from which annual goals and objectives defined.
Purpose of ITP
The Individual Transition Plan (ITP) is a written plan designed to help prepare students for passage from school to post-school life.[1] The ITP must be based on the student’s needs, preferences and interests and reflect the student’s own goals. Objectives, timeliness, and people responsible for meeting the objectives should be written into the ITP (and made part of the IEP). It is important to understand that transition planning and development of the ITP are part of the IEP process.
ITP Components
There are two important components in the ITP. One is a plan including educational goals for a child with disabilities to achieve independent adult live after leaving school. It should include in the areas of independent living , employment (including supported employment), post-secondary education, self-determination skills . Law will require ITP planning should include experience in the community. Schools provide various unique programs for students between 16-22 years of age who are in transition from high school to adulthood.
The other component of the ITP is establishing an inter-agency linkage. School should play a role of case manager creating a collaborating team between school and other government and public service organizations . Parents also can contact and invite professionals from the future service organizations. This inter-agency linkage is a key component ensuring a seamless smooth transition from school to adulthood for people with disabilities.
Transition Assessments
Graduation Pathway
2-year Colleges
4-year Colleges
Occupational Centers
Career & Pathway Exploration – Identify interests, strengths, and potential majors or certification programs.
Research Colleges & Training Programs – Compare admission requirements, costs, program outcomes, and campus culture.
Understand Admission Requirements – GPA, transcripts, entrance exams (SAT/ACT if required), letters of recommendation, and application deadlines.
Time Management & Study Skills – Develop independent learning habits and organizational systems.
Academic Readiness – Strengthen foundational skills in writing, math, and research.
Campus & Program Visits (Virtual or In-Person) – Engage with advisors, faculty, and current students.
Enrollment & Transition Plan – Orientation registration, course selection, housing (if applicable), and first-semester planning.
UCLA Pathway LINK
Pathway at UCLA Extension is a two-year college program for students who identify as neurodiverse, offering a blend of educational, social, and vocational experiences.
Education + Training Assessment Finder: LINK
Explores educational training for specific careers
Assessment to identify scholar interest
Education Exploration: LINK
Interest inventory to identify education pathways
California Center for Inclusive Colleges LINK
Explore colleges for scholars with more severe needs
Career Interest Assessment – Identify strengths, interests, and potential career pathways.
Resume & Cover Letter Development – Create polished, tailored documents.
Interview Preparation – Practice common questions and professional responses.
Professional Communication Skills – Email etiquette, phone skills, and workplace tone.
Workplace Soft Skills – Time management, teamwork, problem-solving, and accountability.
Job Search Strategy – Learn how to use job boards, networking, and LinkedIn effectively.
Workplace Expectations Training – Dress code, punctuality, workplace culture, and professional boundaries.
Financial Literacy Basics – Understanding paychecks, taxes, budgeting, and benefits.
Transportation & Logistics Plan – Reliable commute plan and backup options.
Certifications or Skill Training – Industry-specific credentials (CPR, OSHA, technical certifications, etc.)
Career One Step LINK
Matches scholars interests to careers
My Next Move LINK
Interest exploration
Discover careers and training
California Career Zone LINK
The California CareerZone helps students, educators, jobseekers, and others access up-to-date information on wages, job openings,
Discovering ME! LINK
Effective transition assessment and planning are critical to increasing students’ employment outcomes,
Department of Rehabilitation LINK
Assessment Areas: Identifies current independent-living skills
Identifies current self-determination and self-advocacy skills
Supports learning financial literacy and money management
Identifies where the scholars will live in their post-secondary setting
Iris Center: LINK
Developing self determination, social skills and independent living
Independent Living Skills Assessment: LINK
A criterion-referenced tool to guide used to evaluate, track, and teach essential daily living skills
CASEY Life Skills LINK
Interactive tool designed to help youth (ages 14-21) in identify their current life skills and areas for growth to successfully transition to adulthood
Money Management: LINK
Based on the assessment, the individual can handle the following amount of cash