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). Third-party documentation assists Services for Students with Disabilities (SSD) in understanding whether a student has a diagnosis that rises to the level of a disability, how that disability may impact a student in the academic environment, and in making informed decisions about reasonable accommodations.
Please note that you can meet with an SSD Coordinator before submitting documentation. Coordinators can discuss any documentation needs during your Welcome Meeting. In some situations, when documentation does not provide the necessary information, provisional accommodations may be appropriate and are typically approved for 1 semester, and may later be approved permanently.
Although many types of disability-related documentation may include the necessary information, we have created a Third-Party Documentation Form for your provider to complete to help guide them in providing it.
Examples of different types of Disability-related Documentation that may contain relevant information:
- Neuropsychological or educational evaluation
- Educational records, such as a high school accommodation plan (IEP, 504 plan, etc.)
- Medical Records, including vision assessment, audiology report, etc.
- A letter from an appropriate healthcare professional, on letterhead, which confirms a diagnosis/impact of the disability
- Proof of accommodations used on standardized exams (SAT, ACT, etc.)
This is not an exhaustive list, and SSD may request additional documentation to understand the condition, determine whether there is a disability, and illustrate the connection between the disability's impact, the described barrier, and the requested accommodation. If questions arise regarding the appropriateness of the provider speaking to the student's condition and diagnosis, SSD may ask for a follow-up or request additional information.
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 recovery from surgery) can complete a Student Initial Information Form and receive services through the SSD on a temporary basis.
Students with temporary injuries 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.