What to Know About College Accommodations After High School IEP

What's happening

As your child transitions from high school to college, you may wonder how the accommodations they received through their IEP (Individualized Education Program) will transfer to higher education. It's important to know that the process and support systems in college differ significantly from the IEP services provided in K-12 schools. Unlike high school, post-secondary institutions are not required to provide an IEP. Instead, they offer accommodations through disability support services once your child is enrolled.

Why it happens

In high school, students with disabilities are entitled to an IEP under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), which mandates schools to provide a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE). Once in college, however, colleges are governed by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. These laws ensure equal access but do not mandate specific individualized instruction or support detailed in an IEP. Colleges prioritize access over success, meaning they provide reasonable accommodations but not the level of tailored support found in high school.

What parents should know

• College accommodations aim to provide equal access, not guaranteed outcomes.
• Accommodations in college may include extended test time, note-takers, or quiet testing locations.
• Students are expected to self-advocate and request their own accommodations through the college's disability services office.
• Colleges generally do not modify curriculum or provide personal aides.
• Documentation requirements might differ; a recent evaluation or specific documentation detail may be needed.
• This is educational information, not legal advice.

What you can do next

1. Contact the disability services office of prospective colleges to understand specific accommodation offerings.
2. Gather and organize all necessary documentation, including recent evaluations, to support your child’s accommodation needs.
3. Help your child practice self-advocacy skills by encouraging them to communicate their needs and challenges effectively.
4. Attend transition planning meetings during your child’s high school years to ensure their IEP addresses post-secondary needs.
5. Research and visit colleges with your child to explore their support services firsthand.

In summary

Transitioning from high school to college marks a significant change in how accommodations are provided. While colleges offer support, the responsibility shifts more to the student. Preparing your child to self-advocate is crucial. For more on ensuring your child is ready, the free IEP Readiness tool can help you assess where they stand today. Remember, you're not alone in navigating this path.