Students with documented disabilities may be eligible for accommodations when taking the ACT or SAT. Some of the accommodations include extended test time, large test font, or testing over multiple days. To find out if you are eligible for special accommodations, contact either of the two major testing companies, the College Board or ACT. When exploring different colleges, ask your admission counselor about the services that are available for students with documented disabilities. Many schools will arrange for you to meet with an individual from the academic services center for more specific information.

All colleges must admit students regardless of physical limitations. However, not all colleges are able to provide the same level of access for students with disabling conditions. You should contact each individual college to determine whether the type and level of services that they can offer are appropriate for you. Contact the Office of Disability Services on each campus for specific information.

As a prospective collegiate student-athlete, you are responsible for providing additional documentation to the NCAA. Divisions I, II, III, and NAIA all have different restrictions and rules. If you are planning to participate in Division I or II athletics you must be cleared as an amateur by the NCAA Clearinghouse. Potential athletes are encouraged to register with the Clearinghouse at the beginning of their junior years in high school. For more information on the different levels of competition and detailed information on the Clearinghouse contact the NCAA.

As an international student, you may be required to submit specific test and proficiency scores, as well as other necessary documentation. Be sure to thoroughly read all college application instructions. There may also be a separate application for international students. Every college requires different documentation; however, examples of some documents needed are: WES or ECE evaluation, TOEFL, Affidavit of Support, and a bank statement. As an international student (F, J, or M visas), you will be required to show proof of financial support in order to be granted an I-20, which will be needed to apply for a visa in your home country.

In 2003, the state of Illinois passed Public Act 93-7. Basically, the act states that if a student meets certain conditions, he or she will be considered as an in-state resident for tuition purposes. The conditions are as follows:

1) The student resided with his or her parent or guardian while attending a public or private high school in Illinois.

2) The student graduated from a public or private high school or received the equivalent of a high school diploma.

3) The student attended high school in Illinois for at least 3 years as of the date the student graduated from high school or received the equivalent of a high school diploma.

4) In the case of a student who is not a citizen or permanent resident of the U.S., the student provides the university with an affidavit stating that he or she will file an application to become a permanent resident of the U.S. at the earliest opportunity.

If you are an undocumented student looking to attend college, early in the college search process, you should discuss your status with your guidance counselor, as well as with admission representatives at the colleges you are interested in attending. Remember, we are all here to help you achieve your goals.