FLEX Students with Disabilities
Since 1993, over 350 students with a disability have taken part in FLEX, and describe it as a powerful path to independence and increased self-confidence.
Information for students with disabilities:
MIUSA Program
Students with disabilities who become finalists of the FLEX program attend a one-week independence skills workshop in Eugene, Oregon, in mid August, before traveling to their U.S. host communities. The Eugene workshop is organized by Mobility International, USA (MIUSA, www.miusa.org ), a leading disability rights organization in the U.S. The MIUSA workshop will include:
Interactive sessions on life in the U.S. for people with disabilities, including rights and opportunities in education and community activities;
Activities to build leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills;
Action planning to achieve short- and long-term goals for the FLEX year.
English as Foreign Language
If you are accepted to FLEX, and your English skills are still developing, you will have two opportunities that will help you:
You might be assigned to take part in American Councils’ English as a Foreign Language (EFL) Workshop, in Chisinau, Moldova.
You will also be designated as a Language Program FLEX student, meaning that your Placement Organization will provide at least 14 days of concentrated study or tutoring in English, in the U.S., before your U.S. school starts.
Medical Care and Payment
The FLEX program provides all finalists with program insurance that covers medical emergencies. In addition, the program has additional funds available to each student with a disability. However, FLEX is not a medical treatment program, and does not provide for consultations, treatments, or surgeries.
Special accommodations for FLEX testing
All students who apply to the FLEX program regardless of physical ability or disability go through the same testing process. However, adapted tests (Braille, enlarged, etc.) are available and can be used to allow anyone to be tested. As long as a candidate is able to communicate in English (spoken, written, etc.), FLEX is able to accommodate them.