Beacon College Breaks Barriers, Empowers Neurodivergent Students to Thrive in Higher Ed

As of September 2025, Beacon College in Central Florida is leading the charge in making higher education more inclusive and accessible for students with disabilities. The school, which exclusively serves neurodivergent learners, is the first accredited institution in the country to offer bachelor's degrees tailored to students with ADHD, autism, dyslexia, and other conditions.

To help ease the transition from high school to college, Beacon provides a unique three-week "Summer of Success" program. This immersive experience allows students to live on campus, attend classes, and acclimate to the responsibilities of college life. Chrystol Ingram, the Assistant Director of Financial Services at Beacon, emphasizes that this program is crucial for students with disabilities, who often face significant challenges in this pivotal transition.

Recognizing the financial barriers that many families face, Beacon has become the first college in Central Florida to accept the state's Family Empowerment Scholarship to cover the cost of the Summer of Success program, which typically runs $4,500. This scholarship support ensures that more students and families have access to the resources they need to prepare for the rigors of college.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, in 2022, only 37% of students with disabilities reported their condition to their college. Beacon's innovative approach aims to change this statistic, providing a supportive environment where neurodivergent learners can thrive academically and socially.