Transitioning to College

We are excited to welcome you to Oglethorpe University! The Office of Accessibility Services offers accommodations, coordination and services at no additional cost for students with documented disabilities. OAS promotes equitable and accessible education, meaningful self-advocacy, awareness of disability issues and inclusiveness for the Oglethorpe community.

Below are a few notable differences between high school and college accommodations. Please know that we are here to assist students with a successful transition to college.

We recommend students register with our office the summer before starting to get a jump start on identifying accommodations and other helpful resources that will contribute to your success.

Identification 

  • High School: Students are identified by the school districts.
  • College: Students must self-identify by registering with the Office of Accessibility Services.

Privacy 

  • High School: Information is shared with parents/guardians.
  • College: Every student’s right to privacy and confidentiality is upheld.

Placement and Accommodations 

  • High School: Placement and accommodations include parents/guardians.
  • College: Accommodations do not include parents/guardians.
      • After self-identifying, students will meet with the Office of Accessibility Services to discuss their needs and how Oglethorpe can support.
      • More information is available here.

Instructor Awareness 

  • High School: Special Education teachers may know the student and be aware of specific difficulties or concerns, including strengths and weaknesses.
  • College: Students will need to initiate discussion and make concerns known to college instructors, advisors, and Office of Accessibility Services staff.

Time Management 

  • High School: School district structures a student’s weekly schedule.
  • College: Each student is responsible for their own time management. Office of Accessibility Services staff are here to assist with developing time management strategies for academic success.

Reminders and Deadlines 

  • High School: Teachers remind students of exam dates and assignment deadlines.
  • College: Students are expected to know exam dates and assignment deadlines by referring to course syllabi.

Altering Courses and Programs 

  • High School: Courses and programs can be fundamentally altered.
  • College: Courses and programs are not fundamentally altered. The university will ensure students have appropriate accommodations and access.

Testing and Evaluation 

  • High School: School districts will provide testing, evaluation and services to students. 
  • College: Student is responsible for disability evaluation.