The Applied Studies Diploma is a diploma option available to students identified as having a disability who complete the requirements of their individualized education programs (IEPs) and meet certain requirements prescribed by the Board of Education pursuant to regulations, but do not meet the requirements for any named diploma.
UNDERSTANDING THE APPLIED STUDIES DIPLOMA
The VDOE's new resource, Understanding the Applied Studies Diploma (PDF) is here to assist families with understanding everything they need to know related to this specific diploma option. An accessible Word document version (Word) as well as an accessible Spanish Word document version (Word), is also available.
Not equivalent to a standard diploma
Difficult to change to other diploma options once pursued
May not qualify a child for higher education, federal financial aid, or some employment opportunities
Eligible for Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) through the age of 22