As students leave high school to enter NDSU, they will find fundamental changes with respect to their education as a person with a disability. Every student who attends public school has a legal entitlement to an education, regardless of a disability. Students with disabilities are identified by the school and provided with appropriate supports and services depending on their educational needs.

In higher education, students have a legal right to equal access to their

education. One of the major differences between K-12 and higher education is that the individual student is responsible for themself and is not the responsibility of the institution. It’s a distinction that can make a big difference.

This handbook explains some of the differences between K-12 and higher education as well as provides tips on how to support students during
this next step.