As college counselors, we often remind families that college isn’t just a new academic chapter. College is the start of a new level of independence. This is especially true for students who’ve had IEPs or 504 Plans in high school.
Many colleges and universities remain deeply committed to inclusion and equitable access, but the process for receiving academic accommodations in college looks very different from the process students experienced in K through 12 education. Understanding that shift now can make a huge difference in helping students feel confident, prepared, and ready to thrive.
Understanding How Accommodations Change in College
In high school, student support is proactive and team-driven. Schools identify needs, teachers make accommodations automatically, and parents are involved in every step. The goal is student success.
In college, the legal framework changes, shifting from the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. The focus becomes access. Colleges ensure that all students have an equal opportunity to participate, but it’s up to the student to take the lead when it comes to securing academic accommodations. Below is a quick reference table comparing the experience between high school and college.
High School
• The school identifies students who need support.
• Parents and teachers handle most communication.
• IEPs and 504 Plans guarantee specific supports.
• Teachers check in and make adjustments.
• Parents automatically have access to records.
College
• The school identifies students who need support.
• Parents and teachers handle most communication.
• IEPs and 504 Plans guarantee specific supports.
• Teachers check in and make adjustments.
• Parents automatically have access to records.
How Students Can Prepare Now to Secure Academic Accommodations in College
Building independence takes time. High school is the perfect place to start practicing. Here are a few ways to do so:
1. Learn to speak up for yourself.
Start explaining your learning differences and what supports help you succeed. Self-advocacy is a skill, and college is where it becomes essential.
2. Know your documentation.
Keep copies of your IEP or 504 Plan so you understand the accommodations that have been provided to you in high school. A college does not need to provide you services based on these documents. You will probably need a psychoeducational evaluation completed within 3 years of when you attend college. Your high school may have this but if they don’t have one that has been done within 3 years you can have one completed by a licensed psychologist. You’ll need them when you apply for college accommodations.
3. Reach out early.
After you’ve been admitted, and possibly while exploring schools, contact the college accessibility services office to ask about their accommodations process.
4. Strengthen your executive function skills.
Time management, organization, and self-monitoring are just as important as academic skills. Many colleges offer free tutoring or study strategy workshops open to all students, whether or not they use accommodations.
5. Keep your support team involved (appropriately).
Parents can still help you prepare, but once college begins, you’ll be the point person. Learning how to manage that shift builds confidence and independence. It also helps parents transition their own mindsets to allow their students to take the lead.
The Bottom Line: You Need to Self-Advocate for Academic Accommodations
The purpose of college accessibility services isn’t to give an advantage. It is aimed to ensure equal access. When students understand the process and take ownership of it early, they arrive on campus empowered, not overwhelmed.
If your student currently has academic accommodations or is considering whether to request them in college, now is the time to start the conversation. Learning how to self-advocate and plan ahead will help them transition smoothly and confidently into college life.
Looking for help with the college search and application process?
We help students and families through the entire college planning journey – from search, applications and essays to interview prep, financial aid consultation and final school selection.
Contact us at info@signaturecollegecounseling.com or by phone, 845.551.6946. We work with students through Zoom, over the phone and by email.
