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Youth in Transition Toolkit:

4

Postsecondary education and training

Advocacy and supports

Rights and responsibilities

Does the youth understand their rights and responsibilities in postsecondary education and training through the ADA and Rehabilitation Act?

The right to accessibility in postsecondary education and training is required by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the federal Rehabilitation Act. Title II of the ADA requires state-funded programs — such as universities, community colleges, and career and technical education programs — to provide accommodations. Title III of the ADA covers private colleges and vocational programs. If a postsecondary education program receives federal funding, it's also covered by Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, which requires the school to make programs accessible to qualified students with disabilities.

  • Awareness: Understand legal rights afforded to students with disabilities in postsecondary education and training settings through the ADA and the Rehabilitation Act.
  • Exploration: Identify how the chosen postsecondary education or training program must comply with the ADA and the Rehabilitation Act.
  • Preparation: Discuss legal requirements for accommodations with the chosen postsecondary education or training program.
  • Implementation: Continue accommodation discussions as needed over the course of attendance in the postsecondary education or training program.

Instruction in self-advocacy

LEARN: Develop your knowledge

Learn how to support youth in exploring their rights and responsibilities in postsecondary education and training.

Help us develop this section! Do you have resource ideas to share? Use the Give Feedback link at the top of the page.

DO: Work with youth

Find resources to help youth explore their rights and responsibilities in postsecondary education and training.

Share this Disability Benefits 101 (DB101) article about rights and accommodations to help students understand:

  • How supports and accommodations are different once they graduate from high school
  • Key rights and laws
  • How to request accommodations, and more.

Students with disabilities are protected from disability-based discrimination in postsecondary education and training. Share these PACER Center videos on knowing your rights and responsibilities.

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