Which statement differentiates 504 Plans from IEPs?

• A. A 504 Plan provides accommodations to access the learning environment; an IEP provides specialized instruction and related services
• B. A 504 Plan provides accommodations and related services
• C. A 504 Plan guarantees a free appropriate public education with related services
• D. A 504 Plan is only for postsecondary education

Answer: (A)

The key difference being tested is the type of support students receive. A 504 Plan focuses on removing barriers by providing accommodations to access the learning environment. It ensures equal access but does not require specialized instruction or a plan of targeted services. In contrast, an IEP is a formal plan under IDEA that delivers specialized instruction plus related services (such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, or counseling) and includes goals with progress monitoring, all aimed at providing a Free Appropriate Public Education.

So the statement that captures the distinction—accommodations to access the learning environment versus specialized instruction and related services—is the best answer. For context, a 504 plan might include things like extended time or seating changes, while an IEP would specify concrete instructional supports, services, and measurable goals. The other options either overstate what a 504 plan provides, misstate its scope, or incorrectly limit its applicability to postsecondary education.