If you are a student (college student) with a disability, you are entitled by law to receive extra academic support or accommodations by your school. Nearly all college campuses have an office or department designed specifically to support students with disabilities, typically known as the Disability Resource Center (DRC). Depending on your school, this office or department may go by a different name, such as the Disability Services Office or Center for Student Accessibility, but the resources they offer are typically similar across the board. We’ll break down some things you should know about your school’s DRC - what its purpose is, what resources and services they offer, and how to access them to ensure your academic success.
A school’s DRC exists to support students with all types of disabilities as they progress through college. A representative from your school’s DRC can meet with you to determine any accommodations you need, and work with your professors and other faculty to make sure these accommodations are implemented in the classroom. Beyond accommodations, your school can also offer additional support and resources that can assist you throughout your time in school.
These are some common accommodations that colleges and universities provide to students with disabilities:
Testing accommodations - like extended times for test taking or the ability to take tests in a specific location, like the DRC, rather than in a classroom or lecture hall.
Mobility accommodations - if you have specific mobility needs, your DRC can work with you to receive things like parking accommodations, assistance getting to class, and more.
Course texts in audiobook and braille formats, as well as with larger print sizes.
Assigned note-takers/scribes for class lectures.
Sign language interpreters.
Assistive listening devices.
Depending on the size of your school or amount of resources available, these accommodations may vary.
It’s important to note that the process of receiving support as a disabled student in college will be different than in high school. If you had an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 Plan in high school, the first big difference you will notice about accessing support and accommodations in college is that you will have to start the process yourself.
While each college or university will have a slightly different process when registering for services, here’s an overview of what to do and expect during this time:
In order to be processed by the first day of classes, new students should request services prior to the first day of classes.
First you must be admitted to the college. Learn more about their admissions procedures.
Obtain an Application for Services (pdf)
Complete an Information Release (pdf) form here or from a disability services counselor on the Kilgore campus. Complete and return the forms.
Fill out and submit the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Guidelines form (if applicable)
Bring relevant diagnostic reports signed by a professional authorized to diagnose and/or treat your disability. The report should be on the professional’s letterhead and recent enough to be reflective of your current status and situation.
Tuition Exemptions for Students who are deaf or blind: If you are a student who is deaf or blind, you will need to bring proof of your disability, letter of intent and letter of recommendation before KC can process a tuition exemption for you.
Contact your school's disability services office directly for more information.