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When morning sickness, doctor appointments, and even childbirth conflict with your college schedule, what are you supposed to do? Do colleges accommodate pregnant students in these situations? If you’re struggling to keep up with the demands of your college curriculum, it’s time to request accommodations for your pregnancy or pregnancy-related conditions.
Pregnant students are protected by Title IX, a federal law that prohibits gender-based discrimination in educational institutions. Any college that receives federal funding is required to treat pregnant students with disabilities just like any other student with disabilities. Let’s talk about what accommodations are available to pregnant students, why you might need them, and how to get them. What are accommodations for pregnant students? An accommodation is an exception or adjustment granted to an individual to ensure equal access to opportunities. When someone experiences disability in a university setting, accommodations remove barriers to education. Often, there’s a stipulation that the accommodations must be “reasonable.” What are reasonable accommodations? A reasonable accommodation provides equal access to an opportunity, without causing undue hardship for the college. It effectively solves a problem for the student, but is not overly burdensome on the educational institution, including the professor and other students. What are some examples of accommodations for pregnant and parenting students? Accommodations are very unique to your personal situation, and there isn’t an exhaustive list of what accommodations are and are not allowed. The best approach is to discuss your needs with the disability services office and explore what accommodations might work for you, but here are a few ideas to consider:
What conditions qualify for accommodations? Accommodations are available for a wide range of pregnancy-related conditions and disabilities. Some of the most common ones include:
How do I get accommodations? Getting accommodations shouldn’t be difficult, but going through the formal process does take a few steps. Here’s a quick way to get started:
Navigating college as a pregnant or parenting student can be challenging, but with the right accommodations and support, success is within reach. By understanding your rights under Title IX, connecting with your school’s resources, and advocating for your needs, you can create a pathway that balances your academic goals with your responsibilities as a parent. If you need help navigating the college experience with an unexpected pregnancy, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at any time of day or night. Our team at The Avi Project is available 24/7 to help Colorado students succeed in their academic careers. Text or call us at 720-386-6009 to learn more about the emotional, monetary, and material support available to you. It’s completely confidential and commitment-free. Remember, you’re not alone—your community is there to help, and countless students have thrived in similar circumstances. With determination and the proper support, you can achieve your educational dreams while providing for your family.
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Navigating the college admissions process with a baby on the way? Let's dive into your concerns and answer some important questions. Facing an unplanned pregnancy is nerve-wracking, and so is starting college. Going through both of these challenges at the same time can cause some unique worries.
If you've been anticipating college and now find yourself unexpectedly pregnant, you're likely grappling with a bunch of questions. If you haven’t applied yet, you might wonder if you still should. Do colleges accept applications from pregnant students? And if you have already applied, you might wonder whether colleges can reject your application because of your pregnancy. Luckily, there are protections in place for pregnant students (and students-to-be) that prevent discrimination based on sex. Title IX is a US federal law that states: “No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance[.]” Discrimination based on pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions would be discrimination based on sex. Can schools reject me because I’m pregnant? In most cases, it’s illegal to reject an application due to pregnancy, and it’s not something that students need to worry about. However, some private schools do not accept federal funding, and in those cases, they may not have to abide by Title IX. Some private schools are also affiliated with religious organizations and may have policies regarding pregnancy. If I already have an offer can they rescind it? Yes, colleges can revoke their offer. However, generally they cannot revoke their offers on the basis of pregnancy, as this would be a violation of Title IX law. Common reasons why schools may reject a student include:
Can I lose my scholarships because I got pregnant? We have good news! Pregnancy may qualify you for additional scholarships. There are many people and organizations who want to see moms pursue their educational dreams and build amazing careers, and they’re here to support you financially while you do it. In addition to qualifying you for scholarships specifically for mothers, pregnancy may also increase the amount of financial aid you’re eligible for. Be sure to reach out to your financial aid office to learn more. Can I live in dorms if I’m pregnant? Yes, you can live in dorms while you’re pregnant. Title IX protects your right to housing, and you cannot be discriminated against on the basis of sex. However, most students will be asked to find family-friendly housing after the birth of a child. If you attend a college that requires on-campus housing, you have some options. Your college may offer family-friendly housing on campus, or they may provide you with a waiver to allow you to live off-campus. What if I applied, but changed my mind about going to college? Can I defer? If you’re not ready to go to college yet, you can request a deferral. Becoming unexpectedly pregnant and starting college are both life-changing events. It’s ok if you want to handle one thing at a time. Usually students defer for a year or less, but there are exceptions for longer deferrals. The college can accept or deny a deferral request, and eligibility rules vary. They will ask about why you want to defer, so consider how best to answer the question. Can I go to college if I’m pregnant? Yes you can! You have many legal protections, and there are many opportunities for pregnant students to excel. Ultimately the decision is up to you. If you’re not sure what to do next, we might be able to help you make your college dreams come true! We don’t think that any woman facing an unplanned pregnancy should give up her hope for higher education. If you’re a student facing an unplanned pregnancy, please call or text us at (720) 386-6009 to learn more about your options and all of the support that’s available to you. Wondering about being in a sorority while pregnant? Asking the question is a great first step! It’s very healthy to want to surround yourself with friends and a community that can offer you support during this time. It’s especially helpful to surround yourself with people who may be able to help encourage and support you in your academic life.
Everyone’s experience with pregnancy and sorority membership will vary depending on individual circumstances, the sorority’s culture, and the support network available. Whether you’re pregnant and currently in a sorority, or you’re considering joining one, there are a few things to keep in mind. You matter. Your well-being is of the utmost importance. Prioritize your health and seek the necessary medical advice and support during your pregnancy. Surrounding yourself with understanding friends can make a significant difference, especially in navigating the academic challenges that may arise. Commitment. Being part of a sorority can be a fulfilling experience, but it comes with its demands. The level of demand associated with being in a sorority can vary significantly based on the specific sorority, its policies, and the expectations of its members. Factors to consider include time commitment, financial obligations, social expectations, philanthropy and community service, leadership roles, and academic expectations. It’s crucial to assess whether these align with your personal priorities and ability to balance other commitments. Consider your energy levels during pregnancy, any challenges like morning sickness, and ensuring time for doctor's appointments. Be open and honest. While discussing your pregnancy may seem daunting, transparency is essential to building trust within the sorority. Some sororities may have a supportive community that rallies around members during challenging times. Others may have a less understanding environment. Speaking with sorority leadership is a positive step—they may provide resources and guidance tailored to your unique situation. Title IX. Sorority membership practices are usually exempt from Title IX law. While some sororities allow pregnant members and members with children, some may not. Sororities may have specific policies or guidelines regarding pregnancies. It's advisable to review the sorority's rules and communicate openly with sorority leaders about your situation. If you’re not in a sorority yet: For those considering rushing, it's vital to be aware that the first six to eight weeks of sorority membership can be extremely busy (and possibly expensive). Timing is key, and being informed can help you make the right decision for your circumstances. If you’re already in a sorority and just found out you’re pregnant, don’t panic! It’s best to find out if there are rules in the bylaws about pregnancy. Members who become pregnant may have the option to become alumni early and continue to engage with the group in a new capacity. Remember, there are also numerous alternatives to sororities. Academic or professional organizations, book clubs, service groups, and more can provide friendship, community, and connection. Explore options that align with your interests and goals, attend club fairs, and embrace diverse experiences to create a well-rounded college journey. If you’re a college student facing an unplanned pregnancy, you have options, and you don’t have to go through this alone. If you’re still feeling lost, please reach out to our team at any time of day or night. We’re available by call or text at 720-386-6009, and we want to help you access all the resources you need (including housing, tuition assistance, medical care, and more). You have the right to nurse or breast pump - as well as to the time, space, and privacy to do so. Find answers to your questions about where, when, and how to comfortably breast pump or nurse while attending college on campus.
Being a student mom might seem impossible sometimes, but we’re here to support you and show you that it can be done! Are there laws around breastfeeding support for students? Title IX, a federal law, prohibits discrimination based on sex. This includes discrimination based on pregnancy-related conditions such as lactation, breastfeeding, and breast pumping. Under Title IX, educational institutions that receive federal funding are required to provide reasonable accommodations for pregnant and parenting students. This may include lactation support such as access to private and clean spaces for expressing breast milk, and reasonable break times to do so. Additionally, institutions may need to make accommodations with class scheduling to ensure that lactating students have the opportunity to express milk as needed. If I miss class to pump or breastfeed, could my grades drop? Pregnancy and related medical conditions are covered by Title IX federal law. If you’re penalized for missing class time or school work due to lactation, that may constitute illegal discrimination. Can I pump and/or breastfeed at college? Many college campuses are supportive of breastfeeding and pumping for nursing mothers. Colleges often have policies in place to accommodate the needs of breastfeeding students. It's a good idea to check with your college's Title IX, health services, or student affairs office to find out about the specific facilities and resources available for breastfeeding or pumping on campus. For students in Colorado, several colleges have lactation policies published online, including University of Denver, University of Northern Colorado, and University of Colorado. These policies frequently recognize that appropriate adjustments should be made to accommodate lactating students, and address common issues:
For any questions about the policy, or for questions that are not addressed in by the lactation policy, typically colleges will refer students to the Title IX coordinator for further information. Where can I pump breast milk on college campus? Here are some common places where you might find lactation rooms on a college campus:
If you're having trouble finding a suitable space for pumping or breastfeeding, consider contacting the campus health services, counseling center, or the office of student affairs. They can help ensure that you have a comfortable and supportive environment for pumping breast milk while on campus. What is a lactation room? Some colleges may provide lactation rooms, which offer privacy for breastfeeding and/or breast pumping. These rooms - they may also be booths or pods - offer a cleaner alternative to restrooms and locker rooms. What should I bring with me to the lactation room? This depends on your personal preferences and the specifics of the lactation room, but you may consider bringing:
Being a student mom is hard. We want to help make it easier. It’s important to note that breastfeeding is protected by law in many places, including on college campuses. If you're unsure where to breastfeed or encounter any challenges, consider reaching out to campus resources, such as health services or student affairs, for assistance. Are you a pregnant student experiencing an unplanned pregnancy? Are you wondering how you’re going to feed your baby and also stay in college? We can help you navigate this new chapter of life. We have many free resources available to you - including tuition assistance, career development counseling, and even housing. Call or text us today at (720) 386-6009 to learn more, or visit our pregnancy Help page. Wondering if you’ll lose your scholarship or get kicked out of college because you’re pregnant? Title IX protects your rights as a pregnant college student.
Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Consult a legal professional for advice. Title IX is a federal law in the United States that protects parenting and pregnant college students, and imposes obligations on educational institutions in matters of recruitment, admissions, financial assistance, and more. Title IX prohibits sex-based discrimination in educational programs and activities that receive federal funding, including colleges and universities. Title IX prohibits colleges and universities from discriminating against pregnant students. You have the right to continue your education and participate in all aspects of college life, including classes, extracurricular activities, and housing, without being treated unfairly because of your pregnancy. Your college must provide reasonable accommodations if necessary to ensure you can continue your education. This could include things like excused absences for pregnancy-related medical appointments, flexible deadlines, or adjustments to class schedules. It may also include reasonable adjustments like allowing frequent trips to the restroom or ensuring you have elevator access to your classes. Though Title IX doesn't specifically require colleges to offer parental leave, many schools have policies in place to allow students to take a temporary break from their studies for childbirth or other parenting responsibilities. You should not be penalized for submitting assignments past the due date if you missed the deadline because of pregnancy or childbirth, and there should be allowances for making up participation, attendance credits, and coursework. You should also not be penalized for following your doctor’s guidance, especially when you’re able to provide doctor’s notes. Be sure to check your college's policies regarding parental leave and understand your options. If you believe you are facing discrimination due to your pregnancy, you should report it to your college's Title IX coordinator or designated official. They are responsible for addressing Title IX complaints and ensuring compliance with the law. If you’re concerned about retaliation or confidentiality, you should know that colleges are required to keep your complaint and related information confidential to the extent possible. However, they must also take steps to prevent and address discrimination, which may involve some disclosure. Many colleges offer support services for pregnant and parenting students, such as childcare facilities, lactation rooms, and counseling. These services can help you balance your academic responsibilities with your parenting responsibilities. Familiarize yourself with your rights under Title IX and your college's specific policies related to pregnancy discrimination. Your college's Title IX coordinator or office should be able to provide you with information and guidance. If you believe your college is not adequately addressing your concerns or you face ongoing discrimination, you may want to consult with an attorney who specializes in Title IX cases. It's important to remember that Title IX protections extend to all aspects of your education, not just pregnancy-related issues. If you have concerns or questions about your rights as a pregnant college student, don't hesitate to reach out to your college's Title IX coordinator or seek legal advice to ensure your rights are protected. If trying to navigate college while also dealing with an unexpected pregnancy feels impossible and overwhelming, text us today at (720) 386-6009. Our team at The Avi Project is dedicated to helping students just like you, and we’re available 24/7. Title IX FAQs Can you be pregnant in college? Yes, it is entirely possible to be pregnant while attending college. Many students become pregnant during their college years. If you are a pregnant college student, it's important to be aware of your rights, resources, and support systems available to you, as well as to plan accordingly to manage your academic and personal responsibilities. Can colleges kick you out for being pregnant? Title IX prohibits sex-based discrimination in educational programs that receive federal funding. This includes protection against discrimination on the basis of pregnancy. Colleges must provide reasonable accommodations to ensure that pregnant students can continue their studies. If a college were to attempt to kick you out solely because you are pregnant, it would likely be in violation of Title IX and could face legal consequences. It's essential to speak with your college's Title IX coordinator or designated official so that they can address your situation and ensure compliance with the law. Can you go to college pregnant? Yes, you can absolutely go to college while pregnant. Being pregnant does not disqualify you from pursuing higher education. Many pregnant individuals continue their college education, and colleges and universities are generally supportive of pregnant students in their academic pursuits. Remember that many colleges are committed to helping pregnant students succeed academically, and they have policies and support systems in place to accommodate your needs. Don't hesitate to reach out to your college's student services, counseling center, or academic advisors for guidance and assistance in navigating your college experience while pregnant. Should I tell my professor I’m pregnant? Telling your professor that you are pregnant can be a personal and potentially sensitive conversation. Remember that professors want to see their students succeed, and they may be willing to work with you to ensure that your academic needs are met during your pregnancy. Will I lose my scholarship because I got pregnant? Title IX ensures that pregnant students have the same educational opportunities and benefits as non-pregnant students. This includes the protection of scholarships and financial aid. Scholarships should not be revoked or denied solely because of pregnancy, as this would likely constitute discrimination under Title IX. If you believe your scholarships are being threatened or unfairly impacted by your pregnancy, it's essential to seek guidance from your college's financial aid office or scholarship provider and, if necessary, consider legal recourse to protect your rights. How do I contact my Title IX coordinator? To get in touch with your school’s Title IX coordinator, check your college’s website and look for the “Title IX” or “Equity and Inclusion” section of the website, or use the search function. If you cannot find contact information, contact the Dean of Students or the Student Affairs Office, and they should be able to direct you to the appropriate person. Once you have the contact information, you can either send an email or call the Title IX coordinator directly. |
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