Finding the right college is important for every student.
Finding the right match for a student with a disability is particularly
important. The student and his/her family must ask questions to ensure a
good fit between the student's special needs and the college. It is
important to start the college search looking at the same factors that
all students consider - size, geographic location, selection of majors,
admissions requirements, cost, resources, athletics, social activities
and so forth. Once these factors are considered, it is time to ask the
following types of questions:
1. Is there a separate admissions process for students with disabilities?
2. What documentation is required?
3. Describe the range of accommodations available to students with disabilities.
4. Are accommodation determinations based on the high school IEP recommendations?
5. Is there a separate fee for enhanced services?
6. What is the training of the people who offer the services?
7. How many students with disabilities do you serve?
8. How many learning specialists are there who give direct service to students?
9. What is your retention rate for freshmen? For freshmen with disabilities?
10. What is your graduation rate for all students? For students with disabilities?
11. Do you offer course waivers or substitutions? Under what circumstances?
12. How are testing accommodations handled?
13. How do students access tutoring services? Is there a fee for tutoring? Who are the tutors?
14. Do you offer study skills and/or learning strategies courses? Are they offered for credit?
15. What is the climate on your campus for students with disabilities?
16. How long have these support programs or services been available?
17. Are the support services or the program funded through the college or through government grants? How does
the funding affect your costs?
18. Are students given early registration privileges?
19. Does the school offer any assistive technology equipment?
20. Is there a support group for students with disabilities on campus?
21. Does the school offer courses that help students with disabilities transition to postsecondary education?
22. Discuss any specific housing needs.
Adapted from: Compiled and revised from various college documents