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Disability Access and Federal Law in Education

Providing equal access to education for individuals with disabilities is both an ethical responsibility and a legal requirement. Educators should understand the major federal laws that protect students with disabilities and ensure equitable access to educational programs and services.

This overview is informational only and does not constitute legal advice. For guidance on specific situations, consult your institution’s legal or disability services office.

Key Federal Laws

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973

Section 504 prohibits discrimination based on disability in any program or activity receiving federal financial assistance. Because most postsecondary institutions receive some form of federal funding, nearly all colleges and universities must comply.

The law specifically defines a person with a disability as someone who has (or is regarded as having) a physical or mental "impairment" that affects one or more major life activities, including walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, learning, working, and caring for oneself, among others. 

Under Section 504, institutions are responsible for ensuring qualified students with disabilities have equal access to educational programs and services.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990, along with the ADA Amendments Act of 2008, expanded disability protections to public and private entities, including those that do not receive federal funding.

The ADA states that qualified individuals with disabilities cannot be excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or subjected to discrimination in public programs or services because of their disabilities. The law also prohibits discrimination in employment, transportation, and communication.

Educational institutions are responsible for ensuring accessibility across all programs and services, including classrooms, campus events, online resources, athletics, and extracurricular activities.

Reasonable Accommodations

Institutions must provide reasonable accommodations to ensure equal access for students with documented disabilities. Accommodations may include these options:

  • Alternative testing formats
  • Sign language interpreters
  • Accessible course materials
  • Assistive technology
  • Relocated services or accessible facilities
  • Modified equipment or testing procedures

For example, a student who is blind may use screen-reading software or dictate test responses to a scribe. However, institutions are generally not required to provide personal devices such as hearing aids, wheelchairs, or eyeglasses.

Digital Accessibility

ADA accessibility requirements also apply to online programs and resources. Educational websites, software, videos, and digital course materials must be accessible to students using assistive technology.

For example, students who use screen readers must have access to text alternatives for visual or graphic content. Institutions are responsible for ensuring that digital learning materials are accessible to all students.

Conclusion

Federal disability laws require educational institutions to provide qualified students with disabilities equal access to academic programs and campus resources. When students provide documentation and request accommodations, institutions must make reasonable efforts to support their participation and success. Campus disability services professionals can assist instructors in understanding and implementing appropriate accommodations.