How to Set Up College Accommodations

Posted on August, 25, 2025 by Susan Schaefer, M.Ed., M.A.T, Founder & CEO
 

by Debby Courture, M.A., CMHM

Public Service Announcement! It’s time for college freshmen to set up their accommodations for the fall semester!! 

For college students who are eligible, having accommodations in place is crucial for academic success.  First, register with the college’s Disability Services Office (DSO) (or a similar office), which is separate from admissions and located on the college’s website. Search the college’s website for keywords like “Disability Services,” “Accessibility,” “Equity,” or “Access” to find the correct office. 

Here’s a guide on how to prepare for this important meeting.

Gather Your Documents
Before your meeting, make sure you have all the necessary documentation ready. This includes official letters or reports from a medical professional, such as a doctor, psychiatrist, or neuropsychologist. This documentation should clearly state your diagnosis and explain how it impacts you in an academic setting. Collect any relevant past documentation, such as an IEP or a 504 Plan from high school, though these are not automatically transferred to college.

Be Specific About Your Needs
Go into the meeting with a clear idea of what accommodations you’ll need to succeed. Think about your past academic experiences and any challenges you’ve faced. Some common accommodations include:

• • Extended time for exams
  • A separate, reduced-distraction testing environment
  • Paper-based exams, if you have issues with computer screens
  • The ability to record lectures
  • Extensions on assignments
  • Preferential class enrollment to manage your schedule and workload

Don’t be afraid to be specific. For example, if you have a condition that causes you to need breaks or stand up during an exam, be prepared to explain that.

Prepare Your Questions
It’s your first time navigating this process at a college level, so you’ll have questions. Don’t hesitate to ask! Here are some examples of questions to prepare in advance:

• • What is the process for notifying my professors about my accommodations?
  • Can I get access to course syllabi in advance to help plan my schedule?
  • What is the process for modifying or adjusting my accommodations if I find they aren’t working once classes start?
  • How do I request an extension on an assignment, and what is the typical notice period?
  • What are the options for testing environments on campus? 
  • How far in advance do I need to reserve a testing room?

Focus on Your Needs, Not the Stigma
The person you’re meeting with is there to help you succeed. They are not judging you. Focus on clearly and confidently communicating your needs. The goal is to set you up for a great academic year. Your accommodations are there to level the playing field, so you can focus on learning and not on managing your academics without support. It’s an act of self-advocacy, and it’s a skill that will serve you well throughout your college career and beyond.

If you need support setting up accommodations, please contact us by emailing hello@acacoaches.com.