DIFFERENCES BETWEEN HIGH SCHOOL AND COLLEGE REQUIREMENTS
FOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES

3-4 hours of homework/day.

Weekly; at the end of a chapter, frequent quizzes.

Structured defines it most of the time. Limits are set by parent, teachers, or other adults.

May be dropped or failed for non attendance.

The reading requirements for most classes can be done with minimal outside work.

College is a reading-intensive environment.

School has responsibility to find those who need services and provide the services.

Student must provide documentation and request services. School determines accommodations based on documentation.

Few opportunities; structure of laws make it difficult for students to take control of their services.

Required - The Office of Civil rights has ruled.

Often provided as part of support services during the school day. Free- Individualized and personal.

Not required, but may be available.

Most high schools offer similar services and the way to access those services is the same.

Services vary.
Medical/personal services not required.

Permissible if student <18.

Not without a signed release at ANY age unless student is a dependent.

Permissible.

Not required if it impacts course integrity/standard competencies (essential requirements).

Permissible.

Not required.

Often insufficient as documentation. Student must provide appropriate documentation.

V2.2 PPCC/OASIS 719-502-3333, Adapted from Promoting Postsecondary education for Students with Learning Disabilities, by Loring Brinckerhoff, Stan F. Shaw, & Joan M. McGuire;  p.6, 1993, PRO-ED, Texas, USA