Are Disabled Graduate Students Using Disability Services and What are Their Additional Needs?

Approximately 12% of graduate students identify with disabilities. While little research literature exists regarding the experiences and service use of this population, several qualitative studies have revealed that graduate students with disabilities are unlikely to self-disclose their disabilities and even less likely to register with Offices of Disability Services to receive reasonable accommodations. These individuals have reported not disclosing to avoid disability-related stigma and discrimination, as well as concerns that their needs will be misunderstood by these offices and conflated with those of undergraduate students with disabilities. The current study analyzed a survey of graduate students with disabilities at a large institution in the Northeast that examined if participants registered for services, to whom they disclosed their disabilities, and what services they want and need to be available. Results indicated that more than half of the sample did not register with ODS, citing that they were unaware of services or how to register for them, or to avoid stigma and discrimination. Participants also described needing a range of services and supports that are specific to their needs as graduate students with disabilities. Implications for researchers and practitioners and limitations are discussed.