Academic Resources

Things to Consider

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  • When it comes to deciding a reasonable accommodation, always include the student. The law calls for an interactive process.
  • While it is an institution’s responsibility to have a clear policy on accommodations and make it known, it is up to the students to seek accommodations and provide the proper documentation.
  • An institution can’t be held at fault if a student does not make use of the accommodations given to him/her.
  • Institutions do not have to lower their course requirements as an accommodation.
  • There is a big difference between what students want and what they need. They may ask for services that are detrimental to their future.
  • Colleges and universities do not have to provide accommodation that will alter the essential nature of a program.
  • Changes to accommodations are acceptable if they are reasonable and adequate.
  • Accommodations do not need to be provided if a student does not follow the established requested procedures.
  • Colleges can require documentation to be current even if the disability may be permanent or unchanging.
  • A college or university does not need to provide accommodations that create an unreasonable burden.
  • Accommodations that are not appropriate or reasonable are not required.
  • A college or university may deny a request for an accommodation if the student does not qualify.
  • A faculty member may not unilaterally decide that an accommodation is or is not necessary.
  • Colleges and universities are not required to give students grades that would significantly alter programs and policies.
  • Refusing to provide accommodations for students with disabilities may be allowed when they would be a hardship to the university and there are alternatives available.
  • Colleges and universities may deny individuals with disabilities access to programs or services if there is a legitimate nondiscriminatory reason for the denial.
  • Colleges and universities must provide reasonable accommodations to students with disabilities, if students support their requests with appropriate documentation.