The need for qualified DSPs is high, given a waitlist for services and support that exceeds 482,000 adults with autism and intellectual disabilities. In 2023 NEXT launched NEXT for AUTISM FELLOWS, an employment-based scholarship opportunity for students enrolled in a health and human services-related field of study, with an interest in supporting neurodivergent individuals as a Direct Support Professional (DSP). The NEXT for AUTISM FELLOWS program provides financial scholarships to qualified students while also ensuring new DSPs enter the workplace to support autistic adults.

How do I know if I qualify for a NEXT for AUTISM FELLOWS Scholarship??
You may qualify if you answer 'yes' to any of the questions below.

• Are you an undergraduate student attending one of the following institutions (education partners) – University Chicago-IL, Mercy University, Temple University?
• Are you pursuing a degree in a Health or Human Services field?
• Are you currently working as a DSP and looking to go back to school?
• Are you interested and able to work 800 hours annually earning paid, hands-on experience supporting autistic adults while in school?
  
  

Important Dates

• FEBRUARY 15, 2024: Application opens
• MARCH 22, 2024: Application closes at 3PM EST
• APRIL 8-19, 2024: Finalist interviews
• MAY 2024: Awards announced

For full FAQs and eligibility requirements visit us online here.