Many differences exist between high school and college. As a student with a disability, you’ll need to not only be prepared for these differences, but also for the changes in accommodations and procedures you’ll need to follow based on the laws, policies, and procedures that affect higher education disability access.
Are you prepared for the transition? Below are some key differences you should be aware of and prepare for as you approach high school graduation:
| High School | College |
|---|---|
| Services are delivered to the student. | Students must seek out services. |
| Teachers identify students who need accommodations. | Students self-identify as having a disability and needing accommodations. |
| IEPs, 504 plans and annual reviews are used. | IEPs, 504 plans and annual reviews are not used. |
| Schools provide evaluation for disabilities. | Students provide documentation of disabilities and take responsibility for getting documentation. |
| Educational and psychological tests are provided. | Students must cover the cost of testing and treatment. |
| Accommodations are provided with an emphasis on success. | Accommodations are provided to ensure access to education. |
| A case manager acts as an advocate. | Students act as their own advocate. |
| Information is shared with parents/guardians. | Students are responsible for their own educational choices and sign their own paperwork. Parents/guardians are not involved without students’ permission. |
| Applicable laws include entitlement law (IDEA) and section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. | Applicable laws include the Americans with Disabilities Act (as amended) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. |
| IEP or 504 plans may include modifications to test format and/or grading. | Grading and test format (i.e. multiple choice versus essay) are generally not available. Accommodations to how tests are given (extended time, separate location) are available on a case-by-case basis. |