Minnesota Independence College and Community: Learn Skills. Experience Life.
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College Admissions Process

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1. Explore and Prepare

Get to know us! A tour gives you a firsthand look at our campus and programs. Choose from virtual or in-person options. To book, simply click here to self-schedule.

Tours and info sessions last about an hour and run on weekdays from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. They are private, just you and our admissions team, covering everything from program details to campus life. We welcome prospective students, families, and interested professionals or groups (up to 20).

MICC also hosts open houses and preview days, both in-person and virtually. Stay connected with us on our Facebook, Instagram, or Admissions Update newsletter for dates.
Call 612.869.4008 or email our admissions office to speak directly with a member of the admissions team. Please connect with us directly if you would like to schedule a campus tour outside of typical business hours.

2. Apply Online

College Program Application Deadlines.

Early Decision
September 1.
Early decision application open

November 15.
Early decision application deadline

December 15.
Early decision determinations sent
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General Decision 
November 16.
General decision application open

April 1.
General decision application deadline

May 1.
General decision determinations sent

Applications received after April 1 may be reviewed on a rolling basis as space is available. Availability is not guaranteed.
Click to Apply

3. Submit Required Documentation

We require supplementary materials to be uploaded to complete the application. All required documentation must be submitted through the portal to ensure privacy of information. Exceptions will only be made for documentation submitted by third-party providers. See the tabs below for an outline of the required materials.​

4. Interview & Shadow Day

The Admissions Committee will review completed applications within two weeks of receiving all required information/materials.

Following the review, if appropriate, candidates will be contacted to schedule a virtual interview. Candidates will also be required to attend a shadow day on campus, observing a full day of classes and activities during the application period as part of the interview process. More detailed included dates and times will be shared with candidates during the process.

5. Determinations

The Admissions Committee, a group of MICC staff from across the organization representing all departments and programs, will meet and review all candidates from the decision pool and issue determinations by the deadline of December 15 for early decision and May 1 for general decision.

  • College Admissions Criteria
  • College Program Cost
  • Financial Assistance
  • Required Application Materials
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MICC firmly believes there is no "ideal candidate" for our program. The world of neurodiversity is vast and varied, encompassing a wide range of experiences, abilities, and aspirations. Our approach is not about fitting individuals into a predefined mold; rather, it's about creating an environment where each person's unique perspective is valued and nurtured. However, there are certain requirements for MICC College to ensure safety and success based on the current program structure for housing, instruction, vocational training, and social engagement.

Primary Criteria
​To be considered a candidate for the MICC College Program, it is required that the applicant:
  • Be diagnosed with a learning disability, executive dysfunction, an autism spectrum disorder or other neurological disorder. Typical applicants will have a range of cognitive and processing abilities.
  • Be between the ages of 18-26 years of age.
  • Have completed their K-12 education.
  • Have a Full Scale IQ or General Ability Index of 70 or above, as documented on a neuropsychological evaluation. (Note: MICC will factor in test anxiety, as documented or reported).
  • Not require 24-hour supervision and be able to make safe decisions, as reported in applicant’s application. MICC is not a therapeutic or psychiatric program; and will not be a good fit for participants who experience significant emotional and behavioral challenges.
  • Not have a history of criminal activity that would preclude them from obtaining employment, as reported in applicant’s application.

Secondary Criteria
  • A high degree of interest and/or open mind regarding participating in MICC programs, as reported.
  • Appropriate decision making to allow participation in a comprehensive apartment-living and community-based program, as well as respond well to a structured and supported environment, as reported.
  • Evidence of ability to volunteer or be employed in a work setting with minimal supervision/training, as reported.
  • A history of good citizenship and the ability to accept and follow rules, as reported.
  • Sufficient emotional and behavioral stability and impulse control to live independently function socially, and participate in MICC, as reported.
  • An involved support network, with realistic goals, recognition of the importance of communication and cooperation and who supports the goals and philosophy of the program.
2024-2025 Year 1
​Program Fee:
 $51,748

Room & Board: $9,350 

College fees include:
  • All instruction, books, and instructional materials.
  • Participation in classes, activities, and electives.
  • Staff supports (1:4 to 1:12 based upon curriculum, staff: student ratio).
  • Program-related transportation.
  • 1:1 support services including advisors, instructors, job developers, and transition specialists.

Room & Board fees include:
  • Furnished apartment and utilities
  • Grocery and laundry stipends
  • Southdale YMCA access

Additional costs not included in program fees include:
  • Health insurance, medications, and mental health care
  • Cell phone
  • Indirect costs including weekly spending money and activities
  • Travel to and home for breaks
MICC Financial Services Office
The MICC Financial Services Office is a dedicated team to assist prospective and current participants and families. The aim is to make MICC’s programs financially accessible by providing comprehensive education, resources, and support. This includes helping families understand how to afford our programs and connecting participants with resources for sustained independence after graduation. We are committed to increasing accessibility and lowering entry barriers, offering guidance on available federal, state, and county resources to help manage costs. Understanding the financial commitment to MICC is crucial, and we're here to ensure you're fully informed and financially prepared for the journey ahead. ​
MICC Financial Assistance
MICC offers a limited amount of need-based financial assistance each year, covering up to 50% of program fees. MICC does not qualify for Federal Financial Aid programs.

State and County Waivers

In some cases, state or county funding can offset tuition costs. For example, in Minnesota, individuals can utilize  CDCS Services, and Wisconsin residents can use IRIS funds. We encourage you to contact Financial Services at 612.326.5951 for details about funding in other states. 74% of current College participants utilize funding through the MN waiver programs (CDCS specifically).

Medical Tax Deduction
Participating in MICC College might qualify as a medical tax deduction, but it's essential to consult with your tax advisor for personalized advice.

529 Plan / 529A (ABLE) Plans

MICC is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and is CARF accredited. For tax purposes, MICC is not considered an eligible educational institution by the IRS and does not issue 1098-T forms. Payments made to MICC from a 529 Plan are considered non-qualified distributions. Since the introduction and passing of the ABLE Act, families with children with special needs may fund a 529A Plan, which can be used for a program such as MICC College. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 did include a provision for limited rollover of funds from a 529 Plan to a 529A Plan. Please consult your tax advisor for information on how this may apply to you.
The following documentation is required to complete your College application. ​​All required documentation must be received by the application deadline through the portal for a student's application to be reviewed by the Admissions Committee.
  • Recent neuropsychological evaluation (within the last 3 years). Refer to the Guidelines for Disability Documentation for more information.
  • IEP, Evaluation Plan, and/or Transition Plan
  • Latest HS transcripts, unofficial
  • Health records (most recent physical, etc.)

​Two recommendations (MICC form; we do not ask for letters of recommendation) are required to be completed by professionals on the applicant's behalf. They may be completed by
  • vocational professionals (supervisor, job coach etc.),
  • educational professionals (teacher, instructor, school administrator), or
  • general professionals (case manager, therapist, etc.).

MICC understands that barriers to getting a recent neuropsych evaluation exist, such as cost, insurance coverage, scheduling, and more. Please connect with us directly if you need recommendations for providers. We recommend starting an application early regardless of whether you have all materials available.

Contact Us

MICC Office of Admissions
612-869-4008, option 1
[email protected]
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[email protected]
Request Information
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Sienna Coskran
Admissions Manager
612-876-9408
[email protected]
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Casey Conaway
Admissions Specialist
612-876-9409
[email protected]
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Beth DeZiel
enrollment administrator
612-326-5815
[email protected]
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7501 LOGAN AVE S.  STE 2A   RICHFIELD, MN 55423 
PHONE (612) 869-4008 | FAX (612) 869-0443 | EIN 41-1814112

Effective, August 1, 2018, Minnesota Life College changed its name to MICC., pronounced ‘em’ ‘eye’ ‘see’ ‘see’.
​MICC stands for Minnesota Independence College and Community.


At MICC, the values of diversity, equity and inclusion are essential elements of our vibrant learning community. It is vital that everyone receives the tools to succeed and thrive regardless of neurodiversity, race, ethnicity, nationality, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability status or any other identity. We are committed to embracing diverse perspectives and creating a supportive environment for all to discuss, challenge, and explore how we can continuously enrich the MICC community.