As the April 24 ADA deadline shifts following a recent DOJ extension, higher ed websites are under a new kind of scrutiny.
On April 20, the Department of Justice extended ADA Title II web accessibility compliance deadlines by one year. Larger public institutions now have until April 26, 2027, while smaller entities have until April 26, 2028.
The difference often comes down to how accessibility is tested.
Why Automated Testing Only Tells Part of the Story
Automated testing tools that scan your entire site are great for catching surface-level issues. But they only tell part of the story. Manual testing using assistive technologies is what reveals how real users actually experience your website.
Because automated tools won’t:
- Fill out a contact form
- Filter programs in a program finder
- Use a tuition calculator or other interactive tools
The Moments That Make or Break Engagement
And those are exactly the moments that matter most, where prospective students decide to engage, apply, or move on. It’s also where accessibility issues are most likely to surface.
Anyone can run a scan and check a box. Not everyone is willing to do the more complex work of manual testing using accessibility tools. That’s the difference between compliance and experience. And it’s what sets Paskill apart.
The Accessibility Issues That Keep Showing Up
In recent audits, three accessibility issues continue to surface:
- Navigation that breaks for keyboard and screen reader users
- Missing or insufficient alt text, captions, and transcripts
- Visual design choices that sacrifice readability for brand expression
These aren’t edge cases. They directly impact how prospective students find programs, complete applications, and engage with your institution.
Accessibility as a Foundation, Not a Feature
Agency Interactive Developer Suri Sahay, who recently earned the designation of Certified Professional in Web Accessibility, puts it simply: accessibility isn’t a layer. It’s a foundation. And when it’s treated that way, it doesn’t limit creativity, it strengthens it.
The Hidden Risk: AI Search and Visibility
There’s another layer to consider: AI search. As generative engines increasingly surface and summarize institutional content, inaccessible sites risk becoming invisible. If your content can’t be clearly interpreted by assistive tech or AI, it’s less likely to be surfaced at all.
Compliance Risk Is Real and Increasing
While the compliance timeline has been extended, enforcement risk remains. Complaints can trigger Department of Justice action, and private lawsuits can be filed without warning. Financial penalties aren’t guaranteed, but the cost of remediation, legal support, and reputational damage adds up quickly.
From Compliance to Enrollment Impact
Accessibility is no longer just about compliance. It’s about visibility, usability, and ultimately, enrollment.
The timeline has changed. The expectations have not.
Curious how to get started?
Book office hours with our accessibility experts. Space is limited for these 20-minute consultations.
