It is helpful for both parents and students to understand the major differences between high school and college accommodations as they prepare for their college experience. The tabs below highlight the major differences in a simple, easy to read format.
I.D.E.A (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act)
Section 504, Rehabilitation Act of 1973
I.D.E.A. is about SUCCESS
A.D.A. (Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990)
Section 504, Rehabilitation Act of 1973
A.D.A. is about ACCESS
High School vs. College
Student is identified by the school and is supported by parents and teachers
Primary responsibility for arranging accommodations belongs to the school
Teachers approach you if they believe you need assistance
Information about a student’s disability is automatically shared with teachers
Student must self-identify and request accommodations from Student Accessibility Services
Primary responsibility for self-advocacy and arranging accommodations belongs to the student
Student must get evaluation at own expense
Professors are usually open and helpful, but most expect you to initiate contact if you need assistance
SAS provides the student with a letter for professors outlining approved accommodations only. It is up to the student if they want to share information about their specific disability
High School vs. College
Parent has access to student records and can participate in the accommodation process
Parent advocates for student
There is often regular contact and meetings with parent(s)
Parent does not have access to student records without student’s written consent
Student advocates for self
There is no parent contact without the student’s permission
High School vs. College
Teachers and school modify the educational program(s) to ensure student success
Teachers often remind students of late or incomplete work, and accept it
Teachers will often remind students about upcoming due dates
Professors are not required to modify curriculum design or alter deadlines. The college makes reasonable accommodations that do not alter the essential content or requirements of a course or program to ensure equal access
Professors do not usually remind students of incomplete assignments or accept late work
Professors expect students to read and follow the course syllabus for course requirements, assignments, and due dates
Student has an obligation to meet academic program and graduation requirements
A quick video overview of some of the differences between accommodations in high school versus accommodations in college.
