Frequently Asked Questions
- I have a documented disability. How do I receive academic adjustments?
- What if I require an academic adjustments during a test?
- I think I may have a learning disability or attention deficit disorder. Where can I go to get tested?
- If I have a disability or temporary injury that makes it difficult for me to take notes, can you provide a notetaker?
- What if I have broken my leg and just need accessible parking on a temporary basis?
- I have difficulty walking or using my wheelchair from building to building, especially in bad weather. Can you help me?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Answers
I have a documented disability. How do I receive academic adjustments?
In order to receive academic adjustments, you must present appropriate documentation to the Director of Disability Services. You will also need to complete a registration form. The director will determine what services you may be eligible to receive. The Director will determine services, based on the documentation, discussions with faculty if necessary, and the course in question.
What if I require an academic adjustments during a test?
If appropriate documentation has been presented that demonstrates a need for testing academic adjustments, there are a couple of options. Possible testing accommodations are extended time (time and a half) and/or a distraction-reduced environment in which to take the test. First consult with your professor to find out where the test will take place, either with the professor or in the Office of Accessibility Services. If tests are to be taken in the Disability Services, the student is responsible for setting up the test time. We require two days notice to schedule an exam. You can take their class syllabus which lists their test dates to the Office of Accessibility Services to schedule the entire semester’s test dates. You are also responsible for making sure you are on time for the test and cancel if needed. We are an extension of the classroom and their rules do apply. The professor is responsible for making sure the test arrives at the testing place before the appointed time.
I think I may have a learning disability or attention deficit disorder. Where can I go to get tested?
There are several private psychologists and psychiatrists who can do this type of testing. Ask your doctor if they can recommend one. You can also get tested at the University Counseling Center. Vocational Rehabilitation is also another possibility, however you must meet their criteria that your disability substantially impairs you in working or finding a job.
If I have a disability or temporary injury that makes it difficult for me to take notes, can you provide a notetaker?
Yes. The professor will be notified that we are placing a note taker in the class if you qualify. You will be provided with a copy of your class notes from our office free of charge. The note taker will take notes just as if they were taking the class. You must attend class to receive this service. Exceptions are determined by the director and the instructor of the class.
What if I have broken my leg and just need accessible parking on a temporary basis?
In this case, a letter from a doctor may be sufficient to get a temporary accessible parking permit. This letter should be taken to the University Police Office. If a permit is needed for more than one semester, you will need to get a placard or license place from the Bureau of Motor Vehicles.
I have difficulty walking or using my wheelchair from building to building. Can you help me?
There are a couple of things we might be able to do to help you. First, some students may be eligible for early registration. This allows you to plan your schedule optimally and get the classes in the buildings and times that are easiest for you. Second, in some cases it may be possible to change the classroom. However, some classes cannot be changed because of necessary equipment, i.e., computer labs, chemistry labs, the size of the class, etc. These requests will be taken on a case by case basis.