FAQ

What program do I choose?

Prospective students should choose one program when applying. Past work or volunteer experience or other exposure can help lead them to their decision. Some students have a very clear idea of which program most appeals to them and is the best fit for their skills and strengths. Others spend time on the website, discussing with educators, family, Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor (VRC), job coach, case managers or other key individuals in their lives to aide in their decision-making process. But, ultimately the choice is theirs. A Career Sampling Session (CSS) is highly recommended if someone has had little to no experience or exposure in which to help them decide which may be best for them.

How do I apply?

Applying is easy! Just click Student Application to start the process. All of the required documents needed and other important information is outlined in an easy-to-read checklist found on page three.

You’ll also be asked to provide four to five letters of recommendation. You can forward this link to your list of references: Letter of Recommendation Form

Once the application packet has been received, you will be contacted to schedule an interview and assessment.

What happens when I am accepted?

You will receive an acceptance letter in the mail. There will be a New Student Orientation date listed within the acceptance letter. This is required for all students before they begin their program. Parents and guardians are invited to attend and will have the opportunity to hear more about the student experience and are able to ask questions pertaining to the program and life at EGTI. 

What happens if I am denied?

You will receive a denial letter in the mail. Sometimes, the program does not appear to be a good fit based on skills observed during the two-hour interview and assessment. In these cases, students are encouraged to contact EGTI to request applying for a different program.

Other times, behavioral challenges are observed during the two-hour interview and assessment that may require 1:1 support and close supervision that EGTI staff are unable to provide.

Do I have to attend a Career Sampling Session before applying?

Participating in a CSS is not required for a prospective student before applying for a program. Though a CSS can be helpful for someone who is undecided or needs to explore whether or not any of the programs offered by EGTI are a good fit for them, it is purely optional.

Where do students live?

EGTI students can choose to commute from home (if within a 60-mile radius) or live at the Courtyard Muncie at Horizon Convention Center hotel just as one would a college dorm. Students may opt to have a single room or to be matched with a roommate.

What level of independence is required?

Individuals interested in attending EGTI are expected to be independent in many of the skills listed within the prerequisites document below. They should receive specific instruction and training on these skills before applying. Strategies and supports should be in place to address any of the skills that remain a challenge. Before applying please review the Independent Living Check List.

What do students do during the evenings and weekends?

There are many activities in which a student can opt to participate. From Late Nite festivities at Ball State University to visiting local attractions, libraries, music and sporting events, arts and cultural venues, shopping, movies, dining out, hanging out with friends playing games, settling in for a movie and popcorn night or just about anything else one can think of as part of a healthy, active and engaged lifestyle. EGTI has volunteer community and fitness mentors in addition to part-time staff who work with students to present options for entertainment and activities.

What support is there during the evenings and weekend?

EGTI staff on duty during evenings and weekends support students in the hotel and community. Depending on which level students are on within the Community Access Checklist, staff are present to provide support while accessing the community. There are two part-time staff on duty to oversee and support the students during evenings and weekends and one overnight staff.

Some students may be accompanied, at times, with support through a Medicaid waiver. The service provider, guardian(s), and EGTI staff will communicate regularly to appropriately plan when such supports may be needed.

What type of medical support is provided?

EGTI has a part-time nurse to consult with students and complete weekly med checks. However, students are expected to be able to manage their own medications.

Does EGTI place students after they exit?

EGTI does not provide job placement directly but works alongside the student’s chosen community rehabilitation provider (funded by Vocational Rehabilitation) to help ensure a successful transition as the student prepares for graduation. Upon graduation, the student will work directly with their job coach to research places for employment, complete applications, respond to invitations to interview and, once hired, will receive job coaching until they are fully established in that new work environment.

Is there financial assistance?

Most of the students at EGTI have worked closely with a VRC either concurrent to their enrollment or in advance of applying. A VRC, in conjunction with the individual, determines if the EGTI training program in which the individual is interested would be beneficial in providing more skill development in order to successfully obtain employment. VR is most often the funding agency for a majority of EGTI students. However, additional funding avenues have been used such as private pay, scholarship dollars, and ABLE account.

What is included in the cost?

All basic needs for a student, whether a commuter or living onsite, to successfully complete their program of choice are included: consumable classroom and instructional materials, basic uniforms, some specialized equipment required, room/board for residential students, and personnel costs for evening, weekend, and overnight support. However, there are some specific clothing and footwear requirements along with some classroom supplies we request that the student provide.