How Accommodations for Students Help the College Admission Process
I received my first degree in Special Education from Hood College in Maryland. I worked primarily with students who learn differently, providing each of them with an individualized education plan, chairing meetings with parents and professionals, testing students, writing up detailed reports, and suggesting accommodations.
Although I left that profession for work as a school counselor, I continued to be an integral part of a school’s student services team, including chairing most 504 meetings and attending many IEP meetings. Families considering college for their student who learns differently should definitely make sure the student’s IEP or 504 Plan is annually reviewed and up to date throughout high school.
IEPs and 504 plans greatly support kids during the college admissions process and through the college experience. I strongly advise students to take their most recent IEP or 504 plan to their college of choice and request that these services also be provided at the college. When that is successfully accomplished, IEP and 504 accommodations carry over into the college experience.


