Receiving Accommodations at College
Starting college is exciting, but it also comes with new challenges, especially if you have a disability. One of the most important steps to success is understanding how to request and use accommodations. Requesting an accommodation can support your learning, access, and participation.
Let's walk through what accommodations are, how to get them, and what to expect from the process. This will help you feel confident and prepared as you begin your college journey.
Request accommodations as soon as possible
You may request accommodations from your college/university at any time. However, starting sooner is best. It is recommended that you make an appointment with the Disability Support Services office as soon as possible and no later than one month before the semester begins.Colleges need time to arrange for services and accommodations
Colleges/universities are committed to working with you to provide reasonable services and accommodations. However, arranging services and accommodations takes time. Some academic adjustments may take more time to provide than others. More about requesting services at college.
Accommodations to Request
Requesting accommodations and services may be new to you. So what can you expect? What kind of accommodations can be requested and what is not provided? Here are a few examples.
What accommodations are provided?
Accommodations are modifications to the academic requirements that are necessary for you to have an equal educational opportunity. Reasonable accommodations may include:
- arranging for priority registration
- note taking assistance
- recording lectures
- extended time on tests
- books in alternate format
- sign language interpreters
- screen-readers
- voice recognition and other assistive technology
What accommodations are NOT provided?
Accommodations that are of a personal nature or will impact the essential requirements of the individual program of study will not be provided, including:
- personal care attendant
- private tutors
- waiving of required coursework
