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Preparing for College - What Students with Disabilities Need to Know

Download 'Preparing for College - What Students with Disabilities Need to Know' flyer in PDF.

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Painting of a waterfall

'Waterfall' by David Caplinger (2009, Computer). WVU CED Fine Arts Program

  • You do not have to disclose your disability when applying to attend a college or university.
  • It is your responsibility to notify the college or university that you need a modification or academic adjustment. If needed, you should notify the disability office of the school you are attending as well as your instructors that you have a disability and the modifications or adjustments you will need. These discussions should take place early, preferably before classes start. Notifying the college of your disability and needed modifications or adjustments after failing a test or class will not erase those grades.
  • Academic adjustments are driven by your functional needs.
  • You will need documentation of your disability and functional limitation(s). You should ask the college you are attending what documentation they require. They will probably require documentation prepared by a professional such as a medical doctor, psychologist or other qualified diagnostician. They may request any or all of the following information: diagnosis of your current disability;
    • the date of the diagnosis;
    • how the diagnosis was reached;
    • the credentials of the professional;
    • how your disability affects a major life activity;
    • how your disability affects your academic performance; and
    • any suggested accommodations or adjustments.
  • If needed evaluation(s) are not recent (within the last year preferably) and the school needs further evaluations or further documentation they should notify you specifically what is needed in a timely manner. Your college or high school is not required to pay for these evaluations. If you are being tested (i.e. psychological or assistive technology) during or towards your last year of high school you should make sure adult norms are used. The college will be more likely to accept the report. If you are eligible for services from the West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services (WVDRS), you may qualify for an evaluation at no cost.
  • If you will be living in a dorm and need accessible housing, check out the dorm system early. Some dorm rooms may be more accessible than others.
  • Service animals trained to provide a personal service should be allowed on campus. Emotional support animals are not as likely to be allowed. Again, have this discussion with the disability office early.
  • Have any discussion about dietary needs early, preferably as soon as you know where you will be attending school.

WVA suggests you document any request you have for academic adjustment or modification by writing a letter to the appropriate school personnel and keeping a copy of it. Also keep any correspondence about your request that you receive from your school.

Drawing of a covered bridge.

'Covered Bridge' by Chuck Andrews (2009, Graphite). WVU CED Fine Arts Program

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