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IEP: Individualized Education Program

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Overview

An individualized education program or plan (IEP) outlines services that the school will provide, at no cost to the student's family, to ensure that the student has access to a quality education guaranteed by the law. Here's what you need to know about who's eligible, how to develop an IEP, progress reporting, strength-based goals, and much more.

What is an IEP?

An Individualized Education Program outlines the services and supports that the school or district will provide, at no cost to the student’s family, to ensure that the student has access to a free and appropriate public education (FAPE) under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). The IEP meeting is where you will meet with your school team and build a plan for your child’s special education goals and services, which — true to the “individualized” in its name — should be tailored to your child’s unique needs. The plan becomes a legal agreement between you and your school that must be followed.

Contents

Overview

What is an IEP?

How do I get my child assessed for special education services?

Who helps develop my child’s IEP?

When can I request an IEP meeting?

Why should I understand my rights as a parent of a child with an IEP?

Where can I get help with writing IEP goals?

IEP Basics

What Is an IEP? IEP 101

Key Parts of an IEP

Who Qualifies for an IEP? - IEP Eligibility Categories

Common Special Education Acronyms

IEP Timelines

Types of IEPs

IEP Meeting Prep

How to Request an IEP Meeting

The Ultimate Checklist for IEP Prep

IEP Meeting Tips for Parents

Latest Resources

Video Clip

How Do You Find Out Whether Your Child's Teacher is Implementing the IEP? Ask Open-Ended Questions

Video Clip

Why 504 Plans May Not Be Enough for Children with Low Vision

Parent Question

Will the school district provide IEP services for my child in private school?

Parent Question

Should I wait until the new school year to request assessments?

Video Clip

Why Rotating Staff Matters for Kids with Orthopedic Impairment

Video

What to Do When It’s Not Working: Troubleshooting IEP Supports, Services, and More

Event Recap

How to Tell If Your Child’s IEP Is Working as It Should

Parent Question

How do I call an emergency IEP meeting?

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Supporting a Child With Hearing Loss at Home, at School, and in the Community

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Tech, Equipment, Apps, and More for Low Vision and Blindness

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Orthopedic Impairment (OI) 101

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Orientation and Mobility (O&M) 101

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Tech, Equipment, Accommodations, and More for Orthopedic Impairment (OI)

Video

IEP or 504? What to Choose for Students Low Incidence Disabilities

Parent Question

Can I get my child a 1:1 aide to help with diaper changes at school?

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Inclusion in High School

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Inclusion in Middle School

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Inclusion in Elementary School

Parent Question

Can I decline placement but accept services on the IEP in preschool?

Parent Question

Can my child have an aide during extended school year (ESY)?

Parent Question

Can I revoke my consent to the IEP assessment plan?

Article

IEP Summary of Performance (SOP) 101

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8 Ways to Respond to Your IEP Team When You Disagree about Placement and Inclusion - “They Say, You Say” Part 4

Article

6 Ways to Respond When Discussing Goals in an IEP Meeting - “They Say, You Say” Part 3

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Brittany OlsenUndivided Editor

An editor and cartoonist who loves using words and images to simplify and share ideas. She has ten years of experience as a copy editor and lives near Portland, Oregon. She often spends her free time going on nature walks with her dog or trying new bread recipes.

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Jennifer Drew, Undivided Senior Editor

Each piece of content has been rigorously researched, edited, and vetted to bring you the latest and most up-to-date information. Learn more about our content and research process here.

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