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Post-Secondary Education

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Choosing the right college or university is a difficult and time-consuming process for any prospective student. The student’s IEP doesn’t “follow” them to college or a technical college, however, laws require virtually all post-secondary institutions make accommodations for students with disabilities. It is important for students with disabilities who plan on attending a college or university to be informed of their rights and responsibilities in post-secondary.

Disability/Accessibility Services Coordinator Offices

Colleges or technical colleges receiving federal funds must designate a person to help students with disabilities to access accommodations. This person may be known as a 504 Coordinator, Disability Services Coordinator, Accessibility Services Coordinator, amongst others. A student must be able to self-advocate for services needed when working with an individual from the Disability Services Office at their college or technical college

South Dakota Post-Secondary Disability/Accessibility Offices 
TSLP South Dakota Post-Secondary Coordinators Training Webinar
Council on College Admission in South Dakota (CCASD) – is an association of professionals serving students and their families as they explore educational and career options after high school graduation.

Catch the College Wave is a one-day conference for high school students with disabilities considering post-secondary education.
  • Participate in panel discussions with current college or technical college students who have disabilities
  • Ask Disability/Accessibility Services Coordinators your entrance and eligibility requirement questions
  • Learn how to secure appropriate accommodations
  • Practice self-advocacy and communication skills

All Fall 2024 Catch the College Wave Event Dates Have Passed

Catch the Wave Manual – A guide to post-secondary education for students with disabilities in South Dakota.
Post-Secondary Tips for Parents

Virtual Catch the College Wave Event

Week 1: Key Differences between High School and College


Week 2: Disability Services and Supports

Week 3: Vocational Rehabilitation Services

Week 4: Financial Aid 101

Week 5:  Assistive Technology Resources

Starting the Conversation – College & Your Mental Health – A guide written to provide students and parents with important information about mental health during the college years and proactive steps that can help support college students, if needed.
Making My Way through College – A guide for any student pursuing a degree at a two or four-year college or technical institute.
ACT Accommodations
ACT Website
College and Career Resource Guide
Transition Guide to Post-Secondary Education and Employment for Students and Youth with Disabilities (Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services – OSERS)
Think College – College options for people with intellectual disabilities.  Think College Search features 309 colleges and universities that offer postsecondary education programs for students with intellectual disabilities.

Best Apps for Students
South Dakota Board of Regents
DSU STRONG – The Dakota State University services are geared towards supporting students on the Autism Spectrum. These free services promote independence, confidence, and self-advocacy, along with helping to create a positive social support network. Services are committed to helping students build campus connections that will assist in achieving academic, social, and professional developmental success.

Guide to Assessing College Readiness
Post-Secondary Apps for Transition
Our Dakota Dreams College Prep Lists for High School Students
4 Year Learning Plan Worksheet