This paper describes the increased enrollment of individuals with disabilities in institutions of higher education and the special role of assistive technology resources making that possible. Assistive technology is defined as both devices and services which increase, maintain, and improve the functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities. The paper describes important points in the development of federal legislation affecting individuals with disabilities and their participation in education. In particular the paper describes the Technology-Related Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities Act of 1988. This act made discretionary funds available to all states to facilitate their development of consumer-responsive, statewide technology-related projects. Institutions of higher education can obtain valuable information about ways to serve their students by contacting their state's assistive technology project. Types of information and assistance may include accommodation requirements, computer accessibility devices, augmentative communication devices, and modifications of residential and/or student life. A list of 53 state assistive technology projects' telephone and facsimile numbers is included. (JB)