Vocational Rehabilitation & Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS)
Published: 2025
Purpose of this Publication
The purpose of this publication is to provide general information to individuals regarding their rights and protections under the law. This publication is not a substitute for legal advice. Federal and state law can change at any time. Contact Disability Rights Oregon or consult with an attorney in your community if you need additional help.
How Can Vocational Rehabilitation Help Students with Disabilities Transition to Employment as Adults?
Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) is mandated to provide services to assist with the transition of students with disabilities from school to postsecondary education or employment.
Before You Ask For Pre-Employment Transition Services:
To be eligible for Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS), all of the following must be true:
You are a student with a disability; and
You are eligible for an individual education plan (IEP), or have a documented disability, or are an individual with a disability under Section 504 under the Act; and
You are between the ages of 14-21, in school, and participating in high school, technical school, trade school, vocational school, college, or university that will lead to a certification of completion.
And you will need to gather the following information:
Student’s name
Secure Student ID number
Grade level
Expected graduation date
School and school contact info
Gender, if chosen to identify
Date of birth
Student address, city, state, and ZIP Code
Best way to contact student (email, phone, text)
Description of disability or work limitations
Race and/or ethnicity
Parent or guardian info and best way to contact (email, phone, text)
Parent or guardian signature for any student 18 years old or younger
Signature of the student
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When should I request Pre-Employment Transition Services?
The best time to request Pre-Employment Transition Services is when you start thinking about your next steps after high school or after a program for 18-21 year olds.
Q: Who can request Pre-Employment Transition Services on my behalf?
Any of the following individuals can request Pre-Employment Transition Services for you:
Parent or guardian
Teacher or services coordinator
Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Counselor
Transition Specialist
Student
Q: How do I apply or ask for Pre-Employment Transition Services?
Fill out a Pre-Employment Transition Services request form
Fax the form to (503) 947-5025, or
Email it to pre.ets@odhsoha.oregon.gov
Q: What happens after I apply for Pre-Employment Transition Services?
After you apply, a coordinator will contact you to schedule a meeting. During that meeting, available services and timelines will be discussed.
Q: What kinds of services are offered?
Job Exploration
Become familiar with local businesses
Gain insight into skills and abilities
Understand interests and learning styles
Work-based Learning
Exposure to a variety of workplace settings
Hands-on learning
Learn about opportunities in the community
Workplace Readiness
Skills to live independently
Support on social interactions
Prepare for a job
Self-Advocacy
How do express opinions
Know how to request and accept support
Decision-making skills
Post-Secondary Counseling
Explore next steps after school
Learn about college or training options
Understand and be connected to ongoing support options
Q: What do Pre-Employment Transition Services look like?
There are a variety of Pre-Employment Transition Services available to suit your needs. They come in many different forms including:
Job shadows
Informational interviews
Interest and ability assessments
Career counseling
How to talk about disabilities
Independent living skills
Connection with community resources
Q: VR has refused to support the training program or educational degree I’ve requested assistance with. What can I do?
Take these steps:
If you haven’t received a denial in writing, request a formal written denial.
Next, attempt to resolve the issue with the Branch Manager of your local office.
If that is unsuccessful, use this online form to contact our Client Assistance Program. Our staff will review your case and see if an agreement can be reached with VR.
You also have the right to appeal the denial by requesting an “Impartial Fair Hearing” within 60 days of when you received notice of the decision.
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NOTICE: This document is not intended as a substitute for legal advice. Federal and state law can change at any time. You may wish to contact Disability Rights Oregon or consult with an attorney in your community if you require further information.
