# Transition Services — Definition & Explanation

> From the SchoolBrowse Education Glossary.
> HTML version: https://schoolbrowse.com/glossary/transition-services

**In short:** Coordinated activities preparing students with disabilities for life after high school, including employment, education, and independent living.
**Transition services** are coordinated activities that prepare students with disabilities for life after high school. Under IDEA, transition planning must begin by age 16 (or earlier in some states), focusing on post-secondary education, employment, and independent living skills.

## Components of Transition

Transition planning addresses academic preparation, vocational training, employment skills, daily living skills, community participation, and post-secondary education. Plans should reflect student interests and preferences. Services may include job coaching, college counseling, or independent living instruction.

## Student-Centered Planning

Students should actively participate in transition planning. IEP teams must consider student strengths, preferences, and interests. Transition goals should be measurable and reviewed annually.

## Frequently asked questions

**Q: When does transition planning start?**

Under IDEA, transition planning must begin by age 16, though many states and best practices recommend starting at 14 or earlier.
**Q: What is included in transition services?**

Transition services address post-secondary education, employment, and independent living, including vocational training, job skills, and daily living instruction.

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Source: SchoolBrowse Education Glossary (https://schoolbrowse.com/glossary). Please attribute and link to https://schoolbrowse.com/glossary/transition-services when citing this definition.