Universities and colleges provide services for students
with disabilities in a variety of ways. Although we have categorized
defined levels of service, it is important to note that support
programs/services generally work on a continuum (from mandated services
only to separate programs). The categories below are very general and
simplified. The best way to understand how schools provide support is to
contact the colleges, ask questions, and most importantly, meet with
service providers.
PROGRAM
• Fee for services
• Trained staff/professors with expertise in delivering services
• Separate application
• Documentation required
• Regular scheduled meeting with assigned learning specialist
• Coordination of accommodations, assistive technology and tutoring
• May be involved with general admissions process
COMPREHENSIVE SUPPORT SERVICES
• Learning specialist involved with support and coordination with
campus resources
• Learning specialist available to meet with students on as needed basis
• No separate application
• Minimal involvement with admissions
• May require additional fees
• Documentation required
• Tutoring often delivered by peers
• Student responsible for arranging accommodations
• Support available to all students
SUPPORT SERVICES/ACCOMMODATIONS
• Student must have solid knowledge of how disability impacts learning
• Student must be articulate and a strong advocate to access and obtain
support and accommodations
• Academic support may not, and generally is not, centralized
• Student must be responsible when arranging his/her accommodations
• Documentation required
• Tutoring often delivered by peers
• Support available to all students
• Documentation approved by 504 coordinator
• Student must be completely independent when seeking support or accommodations
• Student may meet only once per semester to receive letter of accommodation
• Most require no fee