IEP Transition Services in New Jersey
When does IEP transition planning start in New Jersey?
New Jersey has a two-tier transition planning framework that begins earlier than many states. Beginning at age 14, or younger if determined appropriate by the IEP team, the IEP must include a Statement of Transition Planning that documents the student's strengths, interests, and preferences based on age-appropriate transition assessments, along with a course of study listing classes for the current IEP year and projected courses to prepare for adult life (N.J.A.C. 6A:14-3.7(e)(11)). At age 14, the IEP team must also consider the need for consultation from the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services (DVRS) and other agencies. Beginning with the IEP in effect when the student turns 16, the IEP must include measurable postsecondary goals based on age-appropriate transition assessments related to training, education, employment, and if appropriate, independent living, along with transition services needed to assist the student in reaching those goals (N.J.A.C. 6A:14-3.7(e)(12)). The IEP must identify a liaison to assist in linking the student with postsecondary resources (N.J.A.C. 6A:14-3.7(e)(13)). New Jersey also requires notification of rights transfer at age 18, when all educational rights transfer to the student unless a legal guardian has been appointed (N.J.A.C. 6A:14-3.7(e)(14); N.J.A.C. 6A:14-2.3(m)). Students with disabilities remain eligible for FAPE through age 21.
What New Jersey Requires
Beginning at age 14, the IEP must include a Statement of Transition Planning with the student's strengths, interests, and preferences, age-appropriate transition assessments, and a course of study (N.J.A.C. 6A:14-3.7(e)(11)).
Beginning at age 16, the IEP must include measurable postsecondary goals for training, education, employment, and independent living based on transition assessments, plus transition services (N.J.A.C. 6A:14-3.7(e)(12)).
A liaison must be identified to assist in linking the student with postsecondary resources (N.J.A.C. 6A:14-3.7(e)(13)).
The IEP team must consider consultation with the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services (DVRS) beginning at age 14 (N.J.A.C. 6A:14-3.7(e)(11)).
Students and agency representatives must be invited to IEP meetings when transition services are discussed (N.J.A.C. 6A:14-2.3(k)(2)).
Notification of rights transfer at age 18 must be included in the IEP (N.J.A.C. 6A:14-3.7(e)(14)).
Key Timelines
Transition planning (course of study, strengths/interests/preferences) must begin by age 14 (N.J.A.C. 6A:14-3.7(e)(11)).
Measurable postsecondary goals and transition services must be in the IEP by age 16 (N.J.A.C. 6A:14-3.7(e)(12)).
All parental rights transfer to the student at age 18 unless a legal guardian has been appointed (N.J.A.C. 6A:14-2.3(m)).
FAPE eligibility continues through age 21 in New Jersey (N.J.A.C. 6A:14-1.3).
For preschool students, IEP reviews for elementary transition must be completed by June 30 of the final eligibility year (N.J.A.C. 6A:14-3.7(i)).