Autism Campus Inclusion Leadership Academy — Course / Training

Autism Campus Inclusion is an annual leadership academy run by the Autistic Self Advocacy Network. The 2026 academy was delivered virtually from July 13 through July 19. Participants learn how to organize student groups, understand disability policy, communicate with people in power, and pursue accessibility and advocacy goals on their campuses.

After the academy, ASAN continues supporting alumni through quarterly check-ins, resources, and alumni opportunities. The 2026 application cycle is closed, and the official page says applications for 2027 will open in January 2027.

Benefits & funding

Seven days of virtual leadership training focused on campus organizing, disability policy, communication, and advocacy.
Continued ASAN support after the academy through four check-ins each year.
Access to resources and opportunities for ACI alumni.
The official page does not list a participation fee, cash award, or stipend; this record therefore classifies the virtual training as Free.

Eligibility

Applicants must be autistic; a formal diagnosis is not required, and self-diagnosed autistic students may apply.
Applicants must attend a college or university and have at least one year remaining before graduation.
Students in TPSID programs, two-year community colleges, four-year colleges, and graduate schools may apply.
The current official page states no nationality, residency, age, gender, or work-experience restriction.
ASAN especially seeks students of color, students with intellectual disabilities, LGBT+ students, low-income students, AAC users, and students from other marginalized communities; these are preferences rather than eligibility gates.

Can you apply?

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Education required
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Application process

1
Check the official ACI page when the 2027 application window opens in January 2027.
2
Choose one application route only: the online form, the downloadable plain-language application, or the downloadable Easy Read application.
3
For a downloaded application, complete it and email it to the contact listed on the official page by the deadline.
4
Applicants who need accommodations may contact Dean Strauss before the deadline to arrange another application method, including a Zoom conversation.

Program timeline

Applications opened.
January 5, 2026
Applications closed.
March 8, 2026
Interviews.
Early to mid-April 2026
Decisions sent.
Late April to early May 2026
Optional pre-ACI events.
June 2026
Academy started.
July 13, 2026
Academy ended.
July 19, 2026
January 2027
Applications for the 2027 program will open; no exact day is published.