Documentation can assist Services for Students with Disabilities (SSD) in understanding how disability may impact a student in the academic environment as well as assist in making informed decisions about reasonable accommodations. SSD engages in a collaborative process that is responsive to the needs of each individual as advised by the Americans with Disabilities Amendments Act of 2008 (ADAAA).
Please note that you can meet with an SSD Coordinator prior to submitting documentation. Coordinators can discuss any documentation needs during your Welcome Meeting. In some situations, provisional accommodations may be appropriate and are typically approved for 1 semester, and may later be approved on a permanent basis.
Although many different types of disability-related documentation may be acceptable (below), for your convenience you may ask your medical provider to complete our Third-Party Documentation Form.
Examples of Different types of Disability-related Documentation:
- Educational records, such as a high school accommodation plan (IEP, 504 plan, etc.)
- Medical Records
- Letter from healthcare professional, on letterhead which confirms a diagnosis/impact of the disability
- Neuropsychological or educational evaluation
- Audiology report
- Vision assessment
- Proof of accommodations used on standardized exams (SAT, ACT, etc.)
This is not an exhaustive list and SSD may request additional documentation in order to illustrate a connection between the impact of the disability, the described barrier, and the requested accommodation. During the exploration process, SSD will evaluate the unique attributes and requirements of the course, program, or activity. Course modifications, auxiliary aids, or services that are ineffective or constitute a fundamental alteration will not be reasonable and therefore will not meet the ADA and Section 504’s minimal standards.
Board, licensing and third party testing agencies often require more extensive documentation than SSD for accommodations. It is important to check with each testing agency for specific documentation requirements so that there will be time to obtain additional testing if needed.
Material has been adopted from the Association on Higher Education and Disability (AHEAD).
Temporary Accommodations
Students with temporary injuries (such as a broken limb, concussion,or surgery recovery) can complete a Student Application Form and receive services through the SSD on a temporary basis.
Students with temporary injuries can meet with a SSD Coordinator prior to submitting documentation. Coordinators can discuss any documentation needs during your Welcome Meeting. In some situations, provisional accommodations may be appropriate and are typically approved for 1 semester, and may later be approved on a permanent basis.