Students with disabilities | Top 5 colleges for a brighter future

Success can be achieved in many ways, and the right education can help students be successful. But do disabled people have the same opportunity as others? The simple answer is no, but we are getting there. 1 out of every 5 college students has some kind of learning disability. This can include students with dyslexia, ADHD, and even those on the autistic spectrum. 

With things constantly changing and evolving, institutions are developing programs to cater to students with disabilities/special needs. But first, let’s learn why colleges need to be more accessible. 

Why colleges need to be more accessible 

Some colleges have become more disability-friendly over the years and are using technology to help students receive the education they deserve. However, students with disabilities still face issues around the world, and the level of difficulty varies depending on how developed the country is.

One prominent difficulty is the lack of inclusivity. This includes technological, physical, classroom, and accommodation barriers. These restrain students from getting the quality education they deserve no matter what setback. 

In an ideal world, there would be enough funding to help students all over, but that’s not the case. Institutions can instead use other small mediums to support students with disabilities. 

Top 5 colleges for students with disabilities

Even though accommodations may look different for every student with physical and learning disabilities, that extra support is crucial. The five colleges mentioned below focus on this extra accommodation with 0 additional costs. 

1. Middlebury College’s

One of Middlebury College’s aims is diversity and inclusion, which is why they are top on our list. They have been supporting students with disabilities throughout Middlebury’s schools and programs since 1995.

One of our every seven students in the year 2018-2019 self-identified as having some kind of disability. They value accommodating students with different learning abilities because it brings more to the table and encourages students to use the Disability Resource Center to build their space and community. 

The university provides confidential services and has many accommodations, such as psychological health services, readers, scribers, screen reading software, etc.

Middlebury College wants all students to feel included and know that they always have support. 

2. The University of Florida 

The University of Florida Disability Resource Center is the connection that ties students and the on-campus collaborations. Students need to present the documentation of their diagnosed disability, and they can then set up an appointment with the learning specialist. 

This session notes the student’s previous learning experience, and students work hand in hand with the specialist to understand what will make the student’s learning and life easier. 

The specialist also suggests many accommodations for students to try and this includes adaptive technology and software to assist students. 

The Office of Student Affairs and Registration works with the Disability Resources Center (DRC), designated to assist University of Florida students with disabilities. DRC provides accommodation and services to register students with disabilities. 

They strive to break academic barriers students face on a day-to-day basis. 

3. Stanford University 

Stanford University has a resource center that offers support to disabled students called the Office of Accessible Education. Students can access this center to seek accommodations by getting the required medical paperwork to the scheduled meeting with the advisor.

This session will help students create individualized plans based on their disability and the university offerings. 

To get a better understanding of the university, the university has videos of students who share their stories to support disabled students who want to study abroad. 

Stanford University helps students seek accessible homestays and get accommodations for international travel. 

4. Southern Methodist University 

Southern Methodist University provides excellent academic resources for all students, including those with learning disabilities. Their Disability Support Services allows students to use creative strategies to build successful academic careers.  

SMU offers students academic coaching that helps students set goals and accomplish them. They also provide students with enough coaching that is catered to each student’s needs and course. 

5. University of Vermont 

The Center of Academic Success at the University of Vermont offers students accessibility services that also include resources for students with documented learning disabilities (this includes mental health struggles). 

Students have access to dependable technology, which includes personal devices. The University of Vermont also has testing centers that have reduced distractions and alternatives to printed materials. The Center of Academic Success also provides assistance to students who have different needs. 

Key takeaways 

• Every university should offer accommodations for students with disabilities to enhance their learning. 
• Thoroughly research the university and the accommodations they offer for students with disabilities. 
• Some universities provide housing support for students with additional needs. 
• Choose a university that helps you build your profile no matter what the setback. 

You can reach out to us about any study abroad queries. See you in the next blog!

Read: All you need to know about Legacy Scholarships

FAQs

 

1. What is the most common type of disability in students?

Answer- Some common disabilities among undergraduate students are- 

• Learn disability
• ADD or ADHD 
• Mental illness/psychological or psychiatric condition 
• Health impairment
• Hard of hearing or Deafness

2. How do I get into college with a learning disability?

Answer- Like any other process, you need to start with research. See which colleges offer special needs services and if they have your desired course. This process may seem difficult for students with special needs, but it takes a bit of time, and you will find the right college for you. 

3. How long is a diploma in special education?

Answer- A diploma in special needs is a three-year course that gives you the knowledge, skills, and attitude needed to help students with disabilities.