A student making the transition from high school to college needs to be aware of the differences in procedure that will be encountered. Educational laws govern services to the disabled in elementary and secondary schools. Services provided at the college level come under the Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. As a result, the student, rather than parents or teachers, becomes the principle decision-maker in any planning process and also signs any necessary paperwork. In fact, the student’s first decision must be whether or not s/he desires to seek accommodations. If so, it is up to him/her to contact the Student Support and Accessibility Advisor.

Differences between High School and College for Students with Disabilities