How do I get an IEP for my autistic child in Indiana?

Submit a written evaluation request to your child's school principal and special education director under IDEA. Indiana schools must complete the evaluation within 60 calendar days of your written consent under Indiana's Article 7 special education rules.

What is the IEP evaluation timeline in Indiana?

Indiana follows the federal standard of 60 calendar days from written parental consent to completion of the evaluation. After evaluation, an eligibility determination is made and, if the child qualifies, the IEP is developed.

Can my autistic child get both an IEP and a 504 plan in Indiana?

No. A student cannot hold both simultaneously. An IEP under IDEA is more comprehensive than a 504 plan. If your child qualifies for special education under Indiana's Article 7, the IEP governs all services.

How do I file a special education complaint in Indiana?

File a written complaint with the Indiana Department of Education's Office of Special Education Complaint Section. Complaints must be filed within one year of the alleged violation and are resolved within 60 days. Mediation and due process hearings are also available through IDOE.

AutismHearts - Autism Resource Directory

Disclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for professional legal or educational advice.

Indiana's special education system is governed by the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) and its Office of Special Education, with programs operating under Indiana's Article 7, the state administrative rule that implements IDEA. Indiana has a well-established continuum of special education placements, and the state has been actively expanding autism-specific resources in schools following increases in identification rates across the state.

Your Rights Under Federal Law

All autistic children in Indiana are protected by:

IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act): Entitles eligible children to a free appropriate public education (FAPE) in the least restrictive environment (LRE), including an IEP.
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act: Provides accommodations for students with disabilities that limit major life activities, even if they don't qualify for an IEP.

IEP vs. 504 Plan: Which Does My Child Need?

Indiana's Article 7 mirrors federal IDEA eligibility criteria closely, with autism as a recognized disability category. Indiana's IDOE Office of Special Education provides detailed guidance on evaluating students with autism and developing high-quality IEPs that include evidence-based interventions.

Most autistic children qualify for an IEP because autism typically affects educational performance requiring specialized instruction. A 504 Plan is appropriate for autistic students who can access general education with accommodations only (extended time, sensory breaks, preferential seating).

How to Request an IEP Evaluation in Indiana

Write a letter to your child's school principal and special education director requesting a comprehensive educational evaluation under IDEA.
Indiana's Indiana Department of Education requires schools to respond within a reasonable time and complete the evaluation within 60 calendar days of parental consent.
If the school declines, they must provide written notice (Prior Written Notice) explaining why.

Sample request language:

"I am writing to request a comprehensive educational evaluation for my child, [name], under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). I believe my child may have a disability that adversely affects their educational performance and requires special education services."

What to Expect at the IEP Meeting in Indiana

Indiana IEP teams must include: a regular education teacher, a special education teacher, a school district representative, a person who can interpret evaluation results, and the parents. The student may attend when appropriate.

The IEP must include:

Current levels of academic and functional performance
Annual measurable goals
Special education and related services (speech, OT, ABA if needed)
Least restrictive environment statement
Accommodations and modifications

Indiana-Specific Resources and Programs

Indiana Department of Education Office of Special Education: Provides Article 7 rules, parent guides, and IEP resources at the IDOE website.
First Steps: Indiana's IDEA Part C early intervention program for children birth to age 3, operated through the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA).
Indiana Resource Center for Autism (IRCA): A state-funded center at Indiana University providing training, consultation, and resources specific to autism in educational settings.
Indiana Parent Training and Information Center (IN*SOURCE): Indiana's federally funded parent advocacy center offering free IEP assistance and training.
IDOE Office of Special Education Complaint Section: Handles state complaints regarding IDEA compliance.

Filing a Complaint in Indiana

If Indiana schools are not following your child's IEP or 504 Plan, you have three options:

State complaint: File with the Indiana Department of Education Office of Special Education — must be resolved within 60 days.
Mediation: Voluntary, free process with a neutral mediator through IDOE.
Due process hearing: Formal legal proceeding before an impartial hearing officer.

Contact Indiana's IDOE Office of Special Education Complaint Section for complaint procedures.

504 Plans in Indiana

Section 504 is administered by school districts in Indiana. The IDOE provides district guidance on 504 obligations. Common 504 accommodations for autistic students include extended time, sensory breaks, preferential seating, noise-canceling headphones, and reduced homework loads.

Search providers offering school support services in Indiana →

IEP & 504 Plans in Indiana: A Parent's Complete Guide