College Life

Is your child headed to college? That’s great news! Just like your child has likely done at high school, they should contact their new school to talk about CF. Most schools have a center or office just to help with these sorts of questions.

If their college is far from home, they may be switching to a new CF Care Center. It’s probably time to make the change from pediatric to adult care, too. That can sound like a lot of changes, especially on top of moving out and starting a new school. That’s exactly why your child should get a new CF Care Team – they can help through it all. Click here to look for a CF Center near your child’s school.

Your child may also qualify for a CF specific scholarship. Below is a list of a few options, although you, your CF Care Team, or your child's school may be aware of more opportunities.

• Cystic Fibrosis Scholarship Foundation

• US Department of Education — Federal Student Aid

• Elizabeth Nash Foundation — CF Research, Scholarships & Patient Support

As with elementary, middle and high school, public universities and colleges must recognize the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

Your child may need a little extra help keeping up with school because of CF. You should know that the plan that was worked out with their high school might not translate directly to their college. For instance, Section 504 requires public schools to provide a free appropriate public education (FAPE) through regular or special education and other services. This means that elementary, middle and high schools were required meet your child’s needs in the same way that they would meet any other student’s needs.

Learn more about your child's rights and responsibilities to make sure they get the most out of their college experience.