Supporting Your Teen’s Transition to College: A Guide to College Disability Accommodations
As a developmental psychologist, I’ve worked with many teens and families preparing for the transition from high school to college. This period is exciting but also filled with big changes. For students with disabilities, one of the most important (and often overlooked) steps is connecting with the college’s disability services office to ensure appropriate accommodations and support are in place. Unlike in high school, where services are coordinated by the school, college students must self-advocate to access supports.
Here are key steps families can take to help teens navigate this process with confidence and clarity:
1. Start Planning Early
Ideally, begin discussing college accommodations during junior year of high school. Talk about what has worked well and what hasn’t in their current learning environment. Encourage your teen to take increasing ownership over their accommodations; This is an essential part of their growing independence.
*Key Tip: Attend transition planning meetings in high school (such as IEP or 504 meetings) with college in mind. Begin to shift language from parent-led to student-led advocacy.
2. Understand the Differences in Legal Protections
High school supports are governed by IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act), while college accommodations fall under ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. Colleges are required to provide equal access—not to modify curriculum or provide remediation.
*Key Tip: Accommodations are available, but only if the student requests them. Colleges are not allowed to identify or approach students about their disability status.
3. Gather the Right Documentation
Each college’s disability office will have specific documentation guidelines, but in general, students will need:
- A recent psychoeducational or neuropsychological evaluation (usually within the past 3–5 years)
- A letter from a treating clinician (psychologist, psychiatrist, or physician)
- A summary of current accommodations (from an IEP or 504 plan, if applicable)
*Key Tip: Contact the college’s disability office or check their website to learn exactly what documentation is required. Some schools provide a form for clinicians to complete.
4. Contact the Disability Services Office Early
Once a student has committed to a school, they should reach out to the disability office, ideally in the spring or early summer before their first semester.
- Schedule an intake appointment (often a mix of online forms and a meeting).
- Share documentation in advance.
- Be prepared to discuss what college disability accommodations they’re requesting and why.
*Key Tip: Encourage your teen to take the lead in these communications, while you offer behind-the-scenes support.
5. Practice Self-Advocacy Skills
College students must independently communicate with professors and campus offices. Practicing these conversations before college helps build confidence.
- Role-play or coach your teen on how to:
- Explain their diagnosis and learning needs in their own words
- Email professors about accommodations
- Ask for help or clarification when needed
*Key Tip: This isn’t just about academics; It includes managing mental health, navigating social challenges, and seeking wellness support.
6. Explore Additional Campus Supports
In addition to disability services, most colleges offer a variety of supports:
- Academic coaching or tutoring centers
- Counseling or mental health services
- Peer mentoring or transition programs
- Time management and executive functioning workshops
*Key Tip: Encourage your teen to connect with these supports proactively, rather than waiting until stress builds.
7. Support the Emotional Transition
Leaving home, managing unstructured time, and navigating a new environment can be overwhelming. Normalize these feelings and help your teen develop routines that support their well-being.
*Key Tip: Consider setting up a check-in routine during the first semester, while respecting your teen’s growing autonomy.
Final Thoughts
Transitioning to college is a major developmental milestone. For students with disabilities, it’s also an important opportunity to build lifelong skills in self-awareness, self-advocacy, and resilience. With early preparation, open communication, and the right supports in place, your teen can thrive—academically, socially, and emotionally.
If you’re feeling uncertain about where to begin, a licensed psychologist or educational consultant can help guide your family through the process. Learn More…
Dr. Kate Colón is a developmental psychologist specializing in assessment of neurodevelopmental disorders. She works with children and teens and families navigating educational planning including identifying supports to bolster strengths and mitigate areas of vulnerability in order to help young people thrive in today’s world.
