The College Search: Accessibility Considerations to Know
Ryan Chernick, M.A.
Director of Accessibility Services
For many students and families, the college search comes with a lot of stress, and that’s completely understandable. As the cost of education continues to rise, choosing the right college can feel like a high-stakes decision tied to academic success, personal growth, and future career goals.
And while all of that is true, the college search doesn’t have to be overwhelming. In fact, it can be fun, especially when you remember one important thing: you are in the driver’s seat.
You get to decide where to apply and, ultimately, where to enroll. That choice is powerful.
At its core, the college search is about opportunity. Students are looking for a place where they can learn, grow, build connections, and prepare for what comes next. You get to decide what matters most to you, and then explore colleges that align with those priorities.
For students with disabilities, the search includes a few additional (and important) considerations. Like any student, you may be looking for a vibrant campus, supportive faculty, and strong career opportunities. At the same time, you’ll also want to understand whether a college can meet your access needs.
By law, colleges are required to provide reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities. That said, not all campuses are equally resourced. Some institutions offer more robust accessibility services, staffing, programs, and campus-wide support than others.
Assessing how inclusive a campus truly is takes an active approach. That means:
- Exploring college websites with a critical eye
- Reaching out to accessibility services and academic support staff
- Asking questions during campus visits or virtual events
- Connecting with current students when possible
You wouldn’t choose a college that doesn’t offer your intended major, so why choose one that can’t support your learning or living needs?
Three Key Steps to a Successful College Search
Reflect
Finding the right college starts with understanding yourself. Why do you want to go to college? What kind of environment helps you thrive? What supports do you rely on? Taking time to reflect leads to a more intentional and informed search.
Explore
With more than 4,000 colleges and universities in the United States, exploration matters. Visit campuses, attend virtual admissions events, and review materials colleges send your way. As your priorities become clearer, it will be easier to recognize the schools that feel like a good fit.
Prepare
College is a new level of independence. Begin thinking about your academic strengths and areas where you may need support. How are your study habits and time-management skills? Accommodations can remove barriers, but being a successful college student is a skill—and like any skill, it takes practice. Consider how you’ll use academic supports once you arrive on campus.