Frequently Asked Questions
Where do I find the Office of Disability Services?
Do I need to bring documentation to Disability Services?
Will information about my disability appear on my transcript?
Who will be responsible for arranging accommodations?
When should I talk with my instructor(s) about the accommodations that I will need?
How will my instructors know that I need accommodations?
Will I have a notetaker for my classes?
Am I eligible for services?
Maybe. Every student’s situation is considered individually. The best way to find out if you qualify is to meet with the Disability Services Counselor/Coordinator to get acquainted and discuss your needs.
Where do I find the Office of Disability Services?
We are located in the Camille Lightner Center between Tandy Hall and the library.
Do I need to bring documentation to Disability Services?
Yes, but documentation is not necessary at the time of your initial visit. The counselor will explain the documentation guidelines and suggest ways that you can get the information you need.
How do I apply for services?
To apply you must register with Disability Services through the office in the Lightner Center. You will need to provide documentation about your disability in order to establish accommodations.
Will information about my disability appear on my transcript?
No. Any disability information you provide remains in Disability Services.
Your official academic record will not show any evidence that you have a disability or need accommodations.
Who will be responsible for arranging accommodations?
It depends. In most cases, it is you, the student, who takes the first step. You are responsible for making your abilities and limitations known to the Disability Services Counselor. You and the Counselor will then decide together what accommodations, if any, are appropriate in your case. Then, depending on your schedule and needs, the Disability Services office may offer further support by providing, for example, extended time for tests, note taking pads for a volunteer note taker, a sign language interpreter, special classroom furniture, and use of the Assistive Technology Lab.
When should I talk with my instructor(s) about the accommodations that I will need?
Talk with your professor as soon as possible. It is to your advantage to meet with the instructor early in the semester to discuss the specific accommodations that you will require. You can plan to meet with the instructor before or after class or during office hours.
How will my instructors know that I need accommodations?
Disability Services will provide an Accommodation Request Form for you to take to your instructors. The form includes your name and the specific accommodations for which you are eligible. The instructor needs to sign the form, and you need to return a copy to Disability Services.
Will I have a notetaker for my classes?
If you qualify, Disability Services can provide notetaking pads which enable volunteer note takers to easily share their class notes with you. Disability Services can help and your instructor can ask for a volunteer notetaker in your class. Alternatively, you may simply ask another student in the class for assistance. If you are unable to get a notetaker, let the Disability Service Coordinator know right away.