The transition from high school to college is a big one no matter who you are. If you’re a student with a disability, however, the additional stresses can be overwhelming. One of the largest changes that you will have to deal with is the substantial difference in scope between the special education services provided on the high school level and those at college.
Fortunately, if you are disabled and plan on attending a college or university, you most certainly are not alone. According to the U.S. Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics, approximately 11% of all postsecondary undergraduates reported having some form of disability. Nearly 22 million students are currently enrolled in American colleges and universities. That means there are over 2.4 million postsecondary students with a disability attending college in this country. These numbers also indicate a growing trend in the willingness of schools to provide quality facilities and services to disabled students of every kind.
We have put this guide together to help disabled students and their parents better understand their rights and responsibilities in regard to a postsecondary education. You will also find useful tips and information for locating the college or university program that best suits your needs.