A Guide to Accommodations, Scholarships, and Campus Accessibility

Going to college is an exciting journey, but for students with disabilities, it comes with unique challenges. From ensuring accessibility on campus to securing financial aid, being prepared can make all the difference. Whether you’re a high school senior planning your next steps or already enrolled and seeking support, this guide will help you navigate college with confidence.

1. Understanding Your Rights: The ADA & Section 504

Students with disabilities have legal protections under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. These laws ensure that colleges and universities provide reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities. Unlike high school, where Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and 504 plans are structured by the school, college accommodations require self-advocacy—meaning you’ll need to request and arrange for them yourself.

Key Rights Under These Laws:

✅ Access to campus buildings and classrooms
✅ Extra time on tests and assignments
✅ Assistive technology (screen readers, voice-to-text software, etc.)
✅ Note-taking assistance or recorded lectures
✅ Priority course registration
✅ Alternative formats for textbooks and materials

2. Requesting Accommodations: The Disability Services Office

Each college has a Disability Services Office (DSO) or an Accessibility Resource Center that coordinates accommodations for students.

Steps to Secure Accommodations:

1. Gather Documentation – Most schools require medical records, a doctor’s note, or proof of previous accommodations.
2. Meet with the Disability Office – Schedule an appointment as early as possible, preferably before your first semester starts.
3. Discuss Needs & Options – Be clear about what you need. Schools often have flexibility in how they provide accommodations.
4. Stay in Touch – If something isn’t working, reach out! You have the right to request adjustments if accommodations aren’t meeting your needs.

Pro Tip: Some colleges offer disability-friendly dorm options, including wheelchair-accessible housing and service animal accommodations. Ask about housing early, as spots fill up quickly!

3. Finding Scholarships & Financial Aid for Students with Disabilities

College can be expensive, but several financial aid options exist specifically for students with disabilities.

Disability-Specific Scholarships:

• Michigan State University Resource Center for Persons with Disabilities Scholarships – Available to MSU students with disabilities.
• Michigan Rehabilitation Services (MRS) Scholarships – MRS assists students with disabilities in funding education and vocational training.
• American Association of Health and Disability (AAHD) Scholarship – For students pursuing a degree in health or disability studies.
• The National Federation of the Blind Scholarship Program – For blind and visually impaired students.
• The Ability Center Scholarship – Supports students with physical disabilities pursuing higher education.

General Financial Aid Resources:

• FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) – Filling this out early helps determine federal grants and loans.
• Pell Grants & Supplemental Security Income (SSI) – Some students with disabilities qualify for additional aid.
• Work-Study Programs – Many schools offer work-study positions that accommodate students with disabilities.

Tip: Search for scholarships by disability type (e.g., spinal cord injury, cerebral palsy, autism, etc.), as many organizations offer targeted funding.

4. Ensuring Campus Accessibility

Not all colleges are equally accessible, so it’s essential to visit campuses or research online before making a decision.

What to Look for on Campus:

Physical Accessibility – Are classrooms, dorms, and student centers wheelchair-friendly? Are there elevators and automatic doors?
Transportation – If you use a mobility device, does the campus have accessible shuttles?
Academic Support – Are there tutors, disability-friendly study spaces, and accessible libraries?
Recreation & Social Life – Are sports, clubs, and events accessible to students with disabilities?

Bonus: Some universities have disability mentor programs, pairing new students with upperclassmen who have similar experiences.

5. Self-Advocacy & Building a Support System

College requires a shift from relying on parents or teachers to advocating for yourself. This can be challenging, but building a strong support system will help.

Ways to Build Support:

Join Disability Student Organizations – Many campuses have groups for students with disabilities.
Stay Organized – Keep track of accommodation approvals, doctor’s notes, and important contacts.
Speak Up – If something isn’t accessible, talk to the administration. Change happens when students voice their needs.
Know Your Resources – Familiarize yourself with on-campus health services and mental health counseling.

Pro Tip: Some colleges offer peer note-taking services where another student in your class shares their notes with you.

Final Thoughts: You Belong Here!

Navigating college with a disability may require extra planning, but you deserve an accessible and fulfilling college experience just like anyone else. By knowing your rights, securing accommodations, and seeking financial aid, you’ll be well on your way to success.

Thinking beyond the chair means breaking barriers and proving that disabilities don’t define limits—they define resilience. ♿✨

Are you a college student with a disability?

Share your experiences and tips in the comments! Let’s build a stronger community together.