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Know Your Rights & Responsibilities

When you go to college or take a college course (regardless of location or modality), you become a college student. There are several differences in the rules high schools (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) or Section 504, Subpart D) and colleges (ADA and Section 504, Subpart E) follow in terms of disability services. It is important to learn these differences and prepare for them. All early college courses are college courses and abide by college-level policies.

In High School:

  • The IEP is mandated and followed.
  • Accommodations are provided to ensure the success of the student.
  • Parents are actively involved in planning and decisions. High school staff talk freely with parents.
  • Paraprofessionals (Ed Techs) or specialized services are provided to individual students.

In College:

  • The high school IEP ends; colleges do not use IEPs.
  • Accommodations are provided to ensure equal access; success is the responsibility of the student.
  • Students should advocate for themselves. Students must give written permission for college staff to speak with parents.
  • All students are welcome to use general academic tutors and learning labs but no specialized supports are offered.

Your Next Steps:

  1. Explore your college and course options.
  2. Connect with the ADA Coordinator at the college.
  3. Gather all required documents and evidence.
  4. Begin studies and use all support services.

Contact the Accessibility Services Office at you campus directly for complete guidance:

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