Documentation for Academic Accommodation Requests

In addition to working with students through an interactive process, DASS requests a reasonable level of disability documentation to determine functional limitations and to identify services and accommodations.

When documentation is required, it must be prepared by a qualified third-party professional, such as a licensed or certified provider, school psychologist, educational institution, or other qualified source. Documentation written by students or unqualified sources cannot be accepted.

At the discretion of DASS, the need for documentation may be waived when the disability is evident; however, documentation may still be requested if needed to determine appropriate accommodations.

What Your Documentation Should Include:

You may submit documentation such as medical records, educational records, or evaluation reports. Your documentation should clearly explain:

Your diagnosis or condition
How your condition affects your learning, coursework, or academic performance
The academic accommodation(s) being requested
Why is each accommodation needed in an academic setting

Examples of Supporting Documentation:

The following are examples of documentation that may support academic accommodation requests. This list is not exhaustive.

Educational records, such as an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or Section 504 Plan
Evaluation reports or assessments completed by a licensed or certified professional
Medical or psychological documentation related to academic access or from which it can be concluded how the condition impacts academic access
Records of prior accommodations from an educational institution that include the type of disability, how it impacts academic activities or learning, and any recommended academic accommodations
Disability Verification Form (PDF , 623KB) completed by a licensed or certified professional qualified to diagnose and treat the disability is also accepted.

Students Without Documentation of a Disability:

If you do not have the documentation listed above, you can complete a Self-Report Form (PDF , 630KB).
However, additional information or supportive documentation from another source (e.g., a licensed professional) is often helpful and may be requested as part of the interactive process to determine eligibility and appropriate accommodations.