Programs within the formal education system that prepare students with disabilities age 16 and older (and younger students, where appropriate) to make a successful transition to adult life. Transition services are provided while students are still in school, consist of coordinated activities, include both classroom instruction and related community experiences, where appropriate, and teach students the knowledge and skills they will need for postschool activities such as employment, postsecondary education, vocational training, integrated employment (including supported employment), continuing and adult education, adult services, independent living and community participation.

Consumer controlled, community based, cross disability, nonresidential agencies designed and operated within a local community by individuals with disabilities that provide an array of independent living services. All CILs provide five core services: information and referral, independent living skills training, peer counseling, individual and systems advocacy and transition. In addition, many CILs also offer transportation services, mobility training, personal assistance, housing and home modifications, recreation services, vocational programs, assistance in obtaining assistive technology equipment and other individualized services designed to increase and maintain independence.

Individuals who are generally between the ages of 18 and 25 depending on the ages that specific programs use for qualification.

Individuals who have physical, sensory, developmental, cognitive, mental or emotional limitations, illnesses or injuries that affect their ability to engage in one or more major life activities. Disabilities and health conditions may be temporary or permanent, may be present at birth or occur at any point in a person's lifetime, and can be of different levels of severity.

Organizations and individual practitioners who offer maximum choice and control (including the ability to select, manage and dismiss their workers) to people who use services or other supports to help with daily activities.