Vocational Rehabilitation (VR)

About This Program

State Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) programs help people with disabilities prepare for, find, and maintain competitive integrated employment. Every state has a VR agency, and services are individualized — your plan is developed with a VR counselor based on your disability, employment goals, and existing skills. Common services include vocational counseling and guidance, job search assistance, job placement support, college or vocational school tuition assistance, and purchase of assistive technology or adaptive equipment. VR is funded jointly by the federal government and states, and it is free to eligible individuals. To qualify, you must have a physical, sensory, mental, or cognitive disability that creates a barrier to employment, and you must be able to benefit from VR services. People receiving SSI or SSDI are presumed eligible for VR without additional evaluation. One of VR's most valuable features is college tuition support. VR can pay for college, community college, or vocational training if a degree or credential is part of your approved Individualized Plan for Employment. This can be a significant source of funding for disabled adults who do not otherwise qualify for sufficient grant aid. Waiting lists exist in some states when funding is insufficient to serve all eligible applicants. States are required to prioritize applicants with the most significant disabilities when resources are limited. To apply, contact your state VR agency — a directory is available at rsa.ed.gov/about/states.

Eligibility Requirements

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