Key Considerations for Students with Disabilities when Choosing a College

Image of two lighter skinned hands holding a black graduation cap with a red tassel and a white diploma with a red ribbon.

It’s that time of year for upcoming seniors and graduates! When searching for and selecting the right college, students with disabilities should prioritize institutions that offer a supportive and inclusive environment. Here are some key factors to consider:

Accessibility: Look for colleges with wheelchair-accessible buildings, ramps, and elevators, as well as adapted facilities for students with mobility impairments.

Accommodations: Ensure that the college provides reasonable accommodations, such as note-takers, sign language interpreters, or assistive technology, to help students with disabilities succeed academically.

Disability Services: Research colleges with dedicated disability services offices that can provide support with daily living tasks and resource coordination.

Inclusive Campus Culture
: Choose a college with a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, especially a school that offers disability-related groups or cultural centers on campus!

Assistive Technology:
Consider colleges that offer state-of-the-art assistive technology, such as text-to-speech software, speech-to-text software, or any other specialized software that students with disabilities might need.

Support Systems: Opt for colleges with a comprehensive support system that includes counseling services, academic advising, and disability-specific resources to help students navigate the college experience.

By prioritizing these factors, students with disabilities can find a college that meets their unique needs and provides a supportive environment for success!

*This idea was inspired by “What Students With Physical Disabilities Should Look for in a College” by Anayat Durrani, published by U.S.News on Feb. 23rd 2024. You can read the full article here: https://www.usnews.com/education/best-global-universities/articles/what-students-with-physical-disabilities-should-look-for-in-a-college.