A survey instrument eliciting demographic and needs information was sent to 4,600 disabled students who attended California community colleges during 1974-75; the response rate was 19.5% and not all respondents answered all questions. Students' ages ranged from 18 to over 56; approximately 66% were over 26, 50% of whom acquired disabilities at age 18 or older. There were more male than female handicapped students except in the under 21 age group. A substantial portion of students aged 27 or older had dependents, indicating they were heads of households requiring economic independence. Of respondents, 29.1% were employed but only 23.9% had jobs enabling them to meet daily living expenses. Other than financial support by parents or spouses (a source of support indicated by 54.9% of those answering this question), five major sources of financial assistance were identified: Supplemental Security Income (42.5%), Social Security Disability (25%), Veterans' Administration Services (33%), Department of Rehabilitation (47.7%), and Workmen's Compensation (7.9%). Students chose preparation for advanced study as their most important initial goal, followed by self-improvement. Factors held responsible for the termination or interruption of studies and course load reductions of 53.3% of the respondents included the requirement of major medical care, financial problems and loss of interest. (TR)