College MatchPoint

How should I go about my initial search if I am disabled?

I love this question! I always tell my students with disabilities to start the college search process the same way any student would.

1. What are my interests? academic interests? personal interests?

2. What kind of college do I imagine attending? big/ small? public/private?

3. Are there particular colleges do I want to learn more about?

4. Do I want to be close to home or far away?

5. Do I prefer lecture based classes or interactive classes?

Use these initial questions to guide your search. Once you have a glimpse of what you are looking for in a college, then also look at the Disability Support Services. I find many students and parents do the reverse process. I caution you to resist this temptation. There are many, many wonderful colleges with good disability programs. Don’t sell yourself short by only defining the process in terms of your disability, find a few colleges that really excite you and then review their disability programs.

Is the disability support services provided in college the same as those in high school?

No! Many students and parents are confused about this issue. Disability Support Services in college are different from high school. Colleges do not use IEP’s or 504′s. Don’t let this discourage you.

I find many of my students get great services in college. The key is to understand the process to follow to access the services. The first step to accessing services is to have up to date testing that clearly states your diagnosis and needed accommodations. The testing must be done in the last three years. The next step is to complete the needed paperwork to apply for services. The Disability Support office will review your documents and determine what services and accommodations are offered to you. It is important to note that some colleges are more “disability friendly” than others. Find out about this process when you are considering colleges. A strong Disability Support Services office can greatly enhance your experience in college.

No! Many students and parents are confused about this issue. Disability Support Services in college are different from high school. Colleges do not use IEP’s or 504′s. Don’t let this discourage you.

I find many of my students get great services in college. The key is to understand the process to follow to access the services. The first step to accessing services is to have up to date testing that clearly states your diagnosis and needed accommodations. The testing must be done in the last three years. The next step is to complete the needed paperwork to apply for services. The Disability Support office will review your documents and determine what services and accommodations are offered to you. It is important to note that some colleges are more “disability friendly” than others. Find out about this process when you are considering colleges. A strong Disability Support Services office can greatly enhance your experience in college.

Kids with LD and/or AD/HD continue to struggle when they reach college. Fortunately, information and help is available! Here’ a list of resources for college students seeking information on college planning and selection, test accommodations, financial aid, legal rights and responsibilities, and study skills.

http://www.greatschools.net/cgi-bin/showarticle/2524