Tips For Transitioning from High School to College with an IEP or 504
High school students who have an IEP or 504 (named after Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973) are used to receiving specialized help with their schoolwork. Whether they get extra time to take exams, have a dedicated assistant to help them stay on task or answer questions regarding their assignments, or need any additional help with their schoolwork, they receive whatever assistance it is that they need to succeed academically.
According to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), this doesn't end when those students go on to college. Colleges and universities need to provide students with specialized assistance as well, although things are quite different. How does the transition from high school to college work? Here are a few helpful tips to help you know what to expect and make the transition a little smoother.
Choose a School with a Good Learning Support Center
Since most colleges have an Office of Accessibility Services or Learning Support Center, you’re likely to find plenty of help and support no matter where you go. But some schools may have programs or resources that will better meet your needs than others. It's important, prior to applying for college, to examine the academic supports in place at various schools and choose the one that seems to suit your needs the best. This way, you're sure to get the help that you need throughout your college career to aid in your academic success.
Ask Questions
When taking tours of universities and looking at the various learning support services that they offer, make sure to ask plenty of questions. Point out the help that you need with school, mention the assistance that you received in high school, and make it clear that you're looking for a college that can provide the support necessary to ensure that you succeed. This way, you're likely to find a school that's the best fit.
Keep Track of Your Paperwork and Documents
No matter what your specialized support needs are, you'll need documentation of your specific learning disability or learning difference. Keep good records, seek out letters and specific information on your needs from your doctors, and make sure that your university has all of the necessary forms and other things that they need to help provide you assistance.
Update Your IEP
Although an IEP isn't always accepted at the college level (in most cases, it ends when you graduate high school), some colleges do accept an IEP and will make the required accommodations. Make sure that your IEP is completely updated and provide the information to the correct department at your school if requested.
If you're a high school senior with an IEP or 504 and want to ensure that your college will provide the support that you need to thrive, contact us, today!