Navigating College with a 504 Plan: What Should I Know?

I'm currently a high school junior with a 504 plan, and I'm trying to figure out how this will affect my college experience. I'm aware that a 504 plan helps students with disabilities get the accommodations they need, but I'm curious about how this translates to college. Do most colleges recognize 504 plans, or do I need to plan for something different? Do you have any tips for transitioning from high school to college with a 504 plan, or know if there are specific resources I should be looking out for? Thanks for any insights!

You're already on the right track by planning ahead and learning how your 504 Plan will be accommodated in college. While 504 Plans don't directly carry over to college, colleges are still required by law to provide accommodations to students with disabilities, generally through a disability services office. This will often be referred to as ADA accommodations, referencing the Americans with Disabilities Act.

In order to receive accommodations, you'll need to self-identify as having a disability to your college’s office that handles ADA accommodations and provide documentation of your disability. This documentation, depending on the specific rules of your college, can often be met by providing the same information that was used to develop your high school’s 504 Plan so it’s important to obtain those records from your high school.

While protections for students with disabilities exist at the college level, one key difference is that it’s mostly your responsibility to advocate for yourself in college. Proactively communicate with your professors about your accommodations and be upfront about any potential challenges you foresee. Professors are usually very understanding and willing to accommodate, but they can only help you if they are fully informed.

You'll want to begin this process as early as possible. Get in touch with the disability services office at your chosen school soon after your admission decision arrives. They'll guide you through steps specific to their institution and help ensure a smooth transition.

Do a quick research on whether the colleges you're interested in have robust support services and an environment that supports students who need accommodations. Pay close attention to the accommodation resources listed on a college's website and consider speaking to students at the university who have gone through this process to get a first-hand perspective.

Remember, asking for and getting accommodations is about leveling the playing field, it's nothing to hide or be ashamed about; it's your right! Transitioning from high school to college is a process for every student, and those with a 504 Plan are no different. Being proactive about your needs will help set you up for success.