By Debbie Knox, M.Ed.

Director of College and Career Advising, The Shelton School

For students with learning differences, college presents both new opportunities and challenges. A key to success is securing necessary accommodations. Unlike high school, where accommodations are provided under IEPs and 504 Plans, colleges operate under different laws, requiring students to take an active role in requesting accommodations.

Here’s what students and families need to know about accessing accommodations in college:

1. Understand the Difference: K-12 vs. College

• In high school, accommodations are provided under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.
• In college, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504 still apply, but students must self-advocate and submit documentation to request accommodations.

2. Obtain Proper Documentation

• Colleges typically require recent documentation, often within the past three years. This can include:
  • A psychoeducational evaluation (The Shelton Evaluation Center provides evaluations: 972-774-1772, ext 2243.)
  • A letter of diagnosis outlining the learning difference and recommended accommodations
  • A high school 504 Plan or IEP (helpful, but not sufficient on its own)

3. Research the College’s Disability Services Office

• Visit the Disability Services Office (DSO) when touring colleges.
• Check the college website for DSO contact information, forms, guidelines and deadlines.
• Apply to Disability Services and request accommodations before classes begin.

4. Be Aware of Common Accommodations

• Extended time on tests
• Note-taking assistance or permission to record lectures
• Alternative testing environments (e.g., a quiet room)
• Access to audiobooks or text-to-speech technology
• Priority registration
• Reduced course load

5. Encourage Self-Advocacy

• Unlike high school, parents cannot advocate for students in college.
• Students must take the lead in managing their accommodations:
  • Meet with professors to introduce themselves.
  • Explain their learning difference and needs in a confident manner.
  • Utilize campus resources such as tutoring centers or academic coaching.

Accessing accommodations in college requires preparation, organization and self-advocacy. Students who take these steps set themselves up for success. Start early, stay informed and embrace your learning differences as strengths.

Debbie Knox is the Director of College and Career Advising at the Shelton School, where she is dedicated to helping students navigate the college admissions process and plan for their future. With a background in education, counseling and student support, she provides personalized guidance to ensure each student finds the right academic fit. Debbie holds a Bachelor of Science in Education from the University of Texas at Austin and a Master of Education from Southwest Texas State University.