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IEP Eligibility

Does my child qualify for an IEP?

Reviewed by Dr. Elizabeth Long, Ph.D. — Director of Special Education, 32 years in public schools.

IDEA eligibility generally involves three key questions:

  1. Does the student have a disability recognized under IDEA?
  2. Does the disability adversely affect the student's educational performance or create an educational need?
  3. As a result, does the student need special education and related services?

All three considerations matter. Having a disability does not automatically mean a student needs an IEP.

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This is educational information, not legal advice. IDEA, Section 504, FERPA, and state rules may differ by situation.

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