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Differences Between High School and College

Helpful Information for Incoming Students with Disabilities and their Families

High School College

The applicable law is the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act or IDEA.

The applicable laws are the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990, as Amended, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.

IDEA is about success.

The ADA is about equal access.

Fundamental modifications of programs and curricula are required.

Academic adjustments are provided. The college or university is not obligated to provide adjustments that fundamentally alter essential course or program goals or that cause an undue burden.  

Education is a right and must be provided in an appropriate environment to all individuals.

Education is not a right – students must meet certain admission criteria.

The school district is responsible for identifying a student’s disability.

Students must self-identify and request accommodations.

The school district develops Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) to define educational services.

Student must identify needs, furnish documentation that meets the University's standards, and request services.

The school district provides free evaluations.

The student needs to obtain evaluations at their own expense.

Student is supported by parents and teachers.

Student is responsible for seeking assistance from the Disability Services Office, which exists to ensure equal access to students with disabilities.

Primary responsibility for arranging modifications belongs to school.

Primary responsibility for self-advocacy and arranging academic adjustments belongs to the student (who may seek assistance from Disability Services).

May have received modifications to the school's behavior code.

Expected to abide by college’s code of conduct, regardless of disability.

Personal Services and equipment for medical and physical disabilities are provided by the school district (i.e., Personal Care Attendant).

Most personal services or equipment are not provided – however, the Disability Services Office may assist the student in obtaining such services or equipment.

Parent advocates for student.

Student must advocate for self.