In a "nutshell", services that colleges provide are quite different than those that public schools provide to students. Basically, there are three "levels" of service that colleges will fall in to and those are the following:
LEVEL I - offer accommodations only (extended time, books on tape). A designated ADA Coordinator oversees all disabilities services; however, a student must be their own advocate. No additional cost for this program.
Level II - offer coordinated LD services (drop-in model, peer tutors, some outreach to faculty). Again, the student must be able to advocate for themselves. Usually no fee for this type of program.
Level III - offer a comprehensive program (own admissions process, LD specialists on staff, curriculum based, proactive, assistive technology). These programs are fee-based.
The key to assisting students with their college search is understanding where they fall in the spectrum of levels of service, and introducing those colleges to you student. It is highly recommended that students tour and interview at colleges that they are considering. They need to ask questions of the admissions counselor, and visit the ADA Student Services Office on campus. Encourage your student to ask "good questions" and find out if the college is right (academically) for them.
