When to Apply for Services

     To insure your request for services is processed and approved in a timely manner, it is important to apply for services as soon as possible. You are encouraged to contact Disability Services during the admission process, or as early as possible.

Application Process

     The first step in applying for services is to contact Disability Services, either in person, or by email or phone. Disability Services will require you to provide documentation of your disability from an appropriate professional. The amount and type of documentation will vary depending on both the nature of your disability, and the service or services you are requesting. You will also be required to sign a Release of Confidential Information form (.doc, .rtf) so that Disability Services can obtain your medical or psychological records as deemed necessary by both you and Disability Services. All information submitted to Disability Services is held in the strictest confidence.

General Documentation Guidelines

     Here are some general guidelines for the amount and type of documentation that Disability Services will require. It is helpful if the diagnosing professional provides suggestions for appropriate accommodations in an academic setting, if at all possible.

Visual Impairment: A copy of your most recent eye exam, which should include diagnosis, visual acuity, functional limitations, and a copy of your most recent Individualized Education Plan (IEP), if available.

Mobility Impairment: Diagnosis of mobility impairment, description of functional limitations, and a record of medications used, prescribed dosage and any side effects experienced.

Hearing Impairment: A copy of your most recent audiological exam, which should include a diagnosis with etiology, degree, type, functional limitations and configuration of loss, as well as a copy of a recent Individualized Education Plan (IEP) if available.

Psychiatric Disability: A DSM diagnosis from a psychologist or psychiatrist stating the diagnosis, characteristics of the disability, functional limitations, projected duration and medication.

Learning Disability: a copy of a comprehensive psycho-educational test battery administered within the last three years with a definitive statement of the diagnosis and type of learning disability, all test scores including subtest scores, a description of the academic limitations resulting from the disability, and a copy of your last Individualized Education Plan (IEP) if available.

Chronic Illness: A diagnosis from your physician stating the diagnosis and impact of the disability, including functional limitations and medication.

Attention Deficit Disorder: A copy of a recent diagnostic report, which states the DSM diagnosis, symptoms and functional limitations, instruments and procedures used to make the diagnosis, and dosage, type and frequency or your medication.

Other: For other disabilities, please consult Disability Services for proper documentation guidelines.