Transitioning from high school to college is exciting, but it also has big changes for students with disabilities. You’re no longer in a system where support is automatically provided. Now, you’re in the driver’s seat. For many students and parents, this change can be overwhelming.

But don’t worry, you’re not alone. With knowledge and preparation, you can make this transition smoother. Let’s break down the key differences between K–12 and college accommodations, then dive into 8 practical tips—4 for students, and 4 for parents.

From IEP to ADA: What Changes After High School

In K–12, students with disabilities are supported under IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) and Section 504 (Subpart D). Schools are responsible for identifying students, evaluating them, and creating IEPs or 504 Plans. Parents are part of the team, often leading the way.

But in college, the game changes. Colleges follow the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504 (Subpart E). That means:

• Colleges aren’t required to identify students with disabilities.
  
  
• Students must self-disclose and request accommodations.
  
  
• IEPs don’t transfer. They may provide helpful information, but aren’t legally binding in college.
  
  
• Parents can’t act on a student’s behalf without written permission.
  
  

This shift from a school-led process to a student-led one is one of the biggest transitions—and one of the most important steps in preparing for college success.

4 Tips for Students: Own Your Experience

1. Register Early with Disability Services
   Don’t wait until midterms to ask for help. As soon as you’ve enrolled or have your class schedule, reach out to the Disability Services Office (sometimes called the Accessibility Office). Each school has its own process, and it can take time to gather documentation and schedule an intake meeting.
2. Bring Updated Documentation
   Most colleges want current documentation that clearly outlines your diagnosis, how it impacts your learning, and the accommodations you need. An IEP or 504 Plan might help tell your story, but it’s not enough on its own. Be ready with a doctor’s letter or psychoeducational evaluation.
3. Learn Your Rights—and Your Role
   In college, it’s your job to speak up. The school won’t monitor your progress or reach out if you’re struggling. Learn what accommodations you’ve been granted, and know how to request them each semester. Remember: your records are private under FERPA—your parents can’t access them without your permission.
4. Talk to Your Professors
   Once your accommodations are approved, don’t stop there. Reach out to your professors early—ideally before the first assignment. Use email or office hours to discuss how your accommodations apply to their class. This helps build trust and clears up any confusion before issues come up.

4 Tips for Parents: Step Back Without Disappearing

1. Shift from Advocate to Coach
   You’ve been your child’s voice and protector for years. Now, it’s time to support them from the sidelines. That doesn’t mean disappearing—it means coaching. Help them practice self-advocacy, and encourage them to send their own emails, make appointments, and solve problems.
2. Know the Privacy Laws
   Under FERPA, you won’t automatically have access to grades, health records, or conversations with college staff. That can feel frustrating, but it’s a good sign your child is growing. Respect their space, and ask how they’d like to keep you informed.
3. Prepare Together Before Classes Begin
   Support your student in organizing important paperwork, updating medical records, and setting up routines for medication, sleep, and time management. Help them pack for independence—planners, alarms, pillboxes, and noise-canceling headphones can go a long way.
4. Stay Available Without Taking Over
   It’s okay to check in, especially during the first semester. Ask how classes are going and remind them of campus supports like tutoring, mental health services, or study groups. If they’re struggling, listen before stepping in. Then gently guide them back to their tools and resources.

You’ve Got This—Together

Getting disability accommodations in college may look different, but support doesn’t have to end after high school. Students, this is your time to grow into the advocate you’ve been becoming. Parents, this is your moment to cheer them on as they take the lead.

Preparation, communication, and trust are key. With the right foundation, students with ADHD, autism, dyslexia, anxiety, and other learning differences can thrive in college and beyond.

Copyright © 2025 by Edna Brown. All Rights Reserved.