What is transition assessment used for?

• A. To identify interests, strengths, and needs to inform postsecondary goals and supports.
• B. To determine only academic achievement.
• C. To place students for testing.
• D. To assess behavioral issues related to transition.

Answer: (A)

Transition assessment is about gathering a broad, real-world picture of a student as they prepare to move from school to life after graduation. It looks beyond grades to capture interests, preferences, strengths, and needs across areas like work, education, daily living, and community participation. The purpose is to use that information to set clear postsecondary goals and plan the supports and services the student will need to reach them. It also helps determine timelines and how progress will be measured, which is why this information feeds directly into the IEP’s transition section.

This approach differs from assessing only academic achievement, which misses important factors that influence successful life after school. It isn’t about placing a student for testing; it’s about informing planning. While behavioral skills can be part of what’s considered, the main goal is to identify what supports will help the student achieve meaningful postsecondary outcomes.