Preparing For College

Updated 11/2025

Introduction

Planning for college is a big milestone, and it comes with plenty of excitement and new possibilities. If you have limb loss or limb difference, you may also have a few additional considerations as you get ready for this next chapter. This guide walks you through key steps to help you feel prepared, supported, and confident as you move toward college life.

Choosing the Right College

Exploring Accessible Campuses

Finding the right school starts with looking at how well a campus matches your needs. As you research options, check whether the college has accessible pathways, ramps, elevators, automatic doors, and adaptive features like gyms or study areas. These details can tell you a lot about how easy it will be to move around your new environment.

The disability services office is another essential resource. Reach out early to learn what support they offer. Ask about accommodations such as accessible housing, transportation services, or assistive technology. Their willingness to answer questions and explain options can help you understand how they approach student support as a whole.

Touring Campuses

A campus visit—either in person or virtually—gives you valuable insight into daily life at the school. Pay attention to how buildings connect, whether pathways are manageable, and what transportation options are available. If possible, speak with students who use accessibility services. Hearing their experiences firsthand can help you picture what life on campus might look like for you.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

College expenses can add up quickly, and you may need to factor in additional costs related to accessibility, transportation, or medical needs. The good news is that many scholarships are available for students who have disabilities, including opportunities offered by national organizations like the Amputee Coalition. Colleges themselves may also provide grants or scholarships for students who have disabilities.

When applying for financial aid, make sure to include any disability-related expenses so your financial aid package reflects your actual needs. The financial aid office can help you understand your options and guide you through the process. Visit our college funding resources to explore options specifically for students who have limb loss and limb difference.

Preparing for the Academic Environment

Connecting with the Disability Services Office

Once you’ve selected a college, register with the disability services office as soon as possible. This office is your main partner in arranging academic accommodations. Common supports may include note-takers, extended testing time, assistive technology, or mobility-friendly seating.

To set things up smoothly, be ready to share documentation such as a letter from your doctor. And throughout your college journey, remember that your needs may change. If something isn’t working, it’s okay to reach out and ask for adjustments.

Understanding Your Rights

Colleges must provide reasonable accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This includes making sure policies and facilities create access for all students. If you ever feel your accommodations aren’t meeting your needs, start by discussing the issue with the disability services office. If you need additional support, you can also connect with organizations like the Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund (DREDF).

Collaboration With Professors

A quick conversation at the beginning of each semester helps set a positive tone. Meeting with your professors allows you to explain your accommodations and talk through what you may need in their class. Most professors want to support you and will work with you to create a plan that helps you participate fully.

If you anticipate challenges—like long walks between classes or assignments that require hands-on work—bring it up early. Together, you can outline solutions and set expectations before the semester gets busy.

Managing Daily Life on Campus

Accessible Housing Options

Finding comfortable housing is an important part of the transition to college. Many campuses offer accessible dorm rooms or apartments, but availability can be limited—so start early. Ask about bathroom accessibility, emergency plans, and how close the dorm is to the places you’ll visit most often.

If you need modifications like grab bars or furniture adjustments, let the housing office know well before move-in day. Early planning increases the likelihood that everything will be ready when you arrive.

Getting Around Campus

Mobility plays a big role in your day-to-day schedule. Many colleges offer shuttle services, transportation assistance, or golf cart programs for students who have disabilities. Familiarize yourself with these options and map out routes between classes.

Weather and terrain matter, too. If you’re attending school in an area with snow, hills, or uneven walkways, think through how these factors might affect your routine. Preparing ahead helps make your days easier from the start.

Health and Wellness

Keeping up with your physical and mental health is essential, especially during big transitions. Find out what medical services are available on campus and whether there are providers familiar with your needs. If you use a prosthesis, locating a nearby prosthetist before the semester begins can be helpful.

Many colleges also offer counseling, peer support groups, and wellness resources. These services can be valuable as you settle into your new schedule and navigate the normal stresses of college life.

Building a Support Network

Connecting With Support Groups

Support can come from many places. Look for on-campus or virtual groups where you can meet other students who understand your experiences. These connections can offer encouragement, practical advice, and community.

Getting involved in campus organizations, clubs, and events is also a great way to meet new people and build friendships with students of all backgrounds.

Support From Family and Friends

Staying connected with loved ones can make the transition to college feel smoother. Regular check-ins can offer comfort, especially during your first few months away from home. Involving your family early—during the research phase or on campus visits—can also help you prepare more effectively.

Seeking Mentorship

A mentor who has experience with limb loss or limb difference and has been through college can be an incredible resource. Organizations, online communities, and support networks often offer mentorship opportunities. Reaching out can give you someone to talk with who understands the unique aspects of your journey.

Embracing Independence

Building Life Skills

College is a great time to build skills that will serve you well in the years ahead. Whether it’s managing your personal care, organizing your schedule, or maintaining your prosthesis or mobility devices, each step helps strengthen your independence. Skills like time management and self-advocacy will support you not just in college, but in life after graduation as well.

Joining Campus Activities

College offers countless opportunities to explore your interests. Many clubs, sports, and volunteer programs include barrier-free options. Getting involved helps you meet people, try new things, and build a well-rounded college experience.

Finding the right balance between schoolwork and social life takes practice—but choosing activities that matter to you can help make your time on campus meaningful and enjoyable.

College Bound

Preparing for college when you have limb loss or limb difference takes thoughtful planning, but you’re not alone in the process. With the right tools, resources, and support, you can build a strong foundation for success. By choosing a campus that fits your needs, advocating for yourself, and connecting with your community, you’ll be ready to take on the opportunities ahead.

Planning for Your Future

As you move through each semester, think about the goals you want to pursue—academically and personally. Career services, internships, and mentorship programs can help you explore future pathways and build experience in your field of interest.

Related Resources

• Amputee Coalition
  https://amputee-coalition.org/

• Americans with Disabilities Act: ADA.gov
  https://www.ada.gov/

• College Bound Financial Resources
  AC Fact Sheet