Frequently Asked Questions

Does UT Dallas provide services for students with disabilities?

Yes, accommodations and services are provided for students with documented disabilities to provide equal access to educational programs and services in compliance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act (1990), and UT Dallas policy. 

The AccessAbility Resource Center (ARC) facilitates the provision of services and accommodations for students. Accommodations are determined on an individual basis using the student’s disability documentation and in consultation with the student.

Is there a separate admissions procedure for students with disabilities?

No. The admissions process and criteria are the same for all students applying to UT Dallas. Disability status will not be a consideration in admissions decisions.

Should I send my disability documentation with my admissions application?

No. Documentation should be submitted to ARC only after you have been admitted to the University and have registered for classes.

What documentation is required to receive disability services?

Students requesting services must provide current and comprehensive documentation from a qualified professional. The documentation must verify the disability and its impact on a student’s academic performance and functional limitations. 

Please refer to the Required Documentation Guidelines for complete details. Please note that eligibility guidelines and accommodations may differ from your high school or other colleges you have attended. An individualized education plan (IEP) or Section 504 plan alone is not sufficient documentation.

Is there a deadline for submitting disability documentation?

To ensure that accommodations will be in place when the academic semester begins, students are encouraged to submit documentation four to six weeks in advance.

Who at the University will know about my disability if I register with ARC?

The accommodation process requires disclosure of the disability status to faculty and ARC staff to adapt courses, equipment or facilities to ensure equal access. 

ARC recognizes the right of the student to determine who receives disability-related information and the right to confidentiality of this information. Disability-related documents, nor services received from our office, are part of a student’s permanent education record.

What happens after my disability documentation is received?

ARC evaluates documentation to determine eligibility for services. An intake appointment is set to identify reasonable accommodations, and an individualized service plan is created to meet the needs of the registered student. 

Please note academic accommodations are not retroactive.

What accommodations and services will I be eligible for?

Appropriate and reasonable accommodations are determined on an individual basis. These accommodations may differ from those provided in high school or other colleges. Accommodations frequently used by students with disabilities include extended time for test taking, note takers, printed materials in alternate formats, sign language interpreters and the use of assistive technology.

How do I know if I can test at the ARC Testing Center?

Check your accommodation letter in AIM. If you are eligible, your accommodation letter will say, “Eligible to test at the ARC.”

How do I take a test at the ARC Testing Center?

First, complete the initial registration process required for all students to receive accommodations at UTD. 

Second, request your official letter of accommodation for your professors as early in the semester as possible by submitting the online letter request form each semester. 

Third, if your official letter of accommodation does include “Eligible to test in the ARC Testing Center,” complete the online scheduling form for each test, exam, or quiz you want to take with the ARC at least five business days in advance (and two weeks in advance for finals). 

If your letter of accommodation does not include “Eligible to test in the ARC Testing Center” and does include testing accommodation (e.g., extra time, a distraction-reduced environment), you will need to make testing arrangements with your professor, not the ARC.

I am eligible to test at the ARC testing center (AD 2.224).  How do I schedule my exams?

1. Each semester, request accommodation letters through AIM for all relevant classes.
2. Meet with professors during office hours to discuss your testing accommodations.
3. Fill out the ARC exam form at least 5 days before EVERY exam/test/quiz for which you require accommodations (2 weeks before final exams).  This is your responsibility.

I am eligible to test OUTSIDE the ARC (e.g., UTD Testing Center at Synergy Park).  How do I schedule my exams?

1. Each semester, request accommodation letters through AIM (utd.link/aim) for all relevant classes.
2. Meet with professors during office hours to discuss your testing accommodations, and confirm the location of your exams (e.g., UTD Testing Center at Synergy Park, with a professor, or online). 
3. It is your responsibility to fill out the ARC exam form at least 5 days before EVERY exam/test/quiz for which you require accommodations (2 weeks before final exams).  Submit this form for ALL accommodated exams, regardless of testing location.
4. When scheduling exams at the UTD Testing Center at Synergy Park, reserve your seat through RegisterBlast (utd.link/testreg) at least 2 days before each exam.  For more details, visit the Testing Center’s ARC FAQ page.

Do I have to submit the form for every test, exam or quiz I want to take with you?

Yes.

My professors said they would send the form in for me or schedule my exams at the ARC. This is OK, right?

No. Students must initiate all requests for accommodated exams at the ARC. If your exam is scheduled by anyone other than you, the reservation will not be accepted and you will need to resubmit the online form personally.

I want to change my reservation or the date of the exam or make a change to a reservation I already submitted. Can I do that?

If you submitted a reservation for an accommodated test at ARC, you may go back to the scheduling link and choose the option to edit or update reservations. 

Please note that the date or time can be changed only if your professor decided to change the date or time for the entire class. If you are ill or have an emergency and cannot attend, you will need to submit a new reservation for a make-up test at least five days in advance. The professor must approve the new reservation, which is not always guaranteed. If you need to update or change a reservation you made to test outside the ARC, please see your professor.

Why can’t I start my exam on the half hour (e.g., 1:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 3:30 p.m.)?

Due to limitations in space and proctors, we must start all exams on the hour. Please work with professors to adjust your start times.

My professor says they cannot find the space or time for me to take my test with accommodations. Guess I will just take it with the class and hope for the best?

No! Please do not go without your accommodations if that is not your choice. The ARC will work with you and your professors to find options. 

Please contact us at studentacess@utdallas.edu.

Can I just ask the ARC to get the time or other details from my professor when I fill out the online test form?

No! Please only fill out the online forms when you have all the details. If you are unsure, ask your professor.

How are accommodations applied to quizzes/short tests that are administered during class?

Accommodating quizzes can be challenging, especially for those not announced in advance (e.g., pop quizzes).  Here’s what you need to know:

• Review your syllabus early in the semester and discuss any quiz-related accommodations with your professor.  
• Many students choose not to use accommodations for short quizzes to avoid leaving class.  Whether you use accommodations for short quizzes is your choice.
• If you decide to use accommodations, ask your professor about taking quizzes earlier or later in a location they provide, or submit the ARC exam form if eligible to test at the ARC.  
• If testing at the ARC, remember that exams start on the hour, and you will need professor approval to test at alternate times.  You won’t be allowed to test if you’re more than 15 minutes late, so be punctual.  
• For accommodations requiring significant preparation, like readers or scribes, arrange quizzes well in advance with your professors and the ARC. 
• If quiz answers are discussed in class, you may need to step out if you are taking the quiz later.

I missed the 5-day deadline to schedule an exam at the ARC.  What are my options?

1. Request your professor’s permission to reschedule.  If approved, submit an exam reservation at least 5 days before the new exam.  Note: Approval is not guaranteed. It is up to your professor.
2. Coordinate an alternative testing location with your professor (e.g., UTD Testing Center at Synergy Park, professor-provided space, or online).

What are the ARC testing hours, and what should I do if a student’s exam goes beyond these hours?

The ARC testing hours are Mon-Thu (8:30am-5pm) and Friday (8:30am-3pm).  Please allow flexibility in exam start times to accommodate the testing hours and students with extended time.  If a student’s exam exceeds these hours, faculty must provide an alternative testing location (e.g., Synergy Park Testing Center [SP2 11.175], office/conference room, or online).

Is there a way to provide testing accommodations outside those hours?

Yes. Faculty may provide the testing accommodations directly, arrange for testing at the UTD Testing Center (SP2 11.175) or provide accommodated testing online. Faculty can learn more about their options on the Testing Accommodations page.

How do I know when a student needs accommodations on my test?

First, students must present faculty with an official letter of accommodation from the ARC, which will list all accommodations. Students must do this as early in the semester as possible and decide which tests and what accommodations may be necessary for your class with your help. 

Second, students must submit an online request for each individual test, exam or quiz that they know about in advance through the ARC online test forms. These forms will automatically generate an email that informs faculty of the accommodation need and provides further instructions. Faculty are not required to take any action until both the accommodation letter and online request for each test have been created by the student. It is highly advisable for faculty to include an ADA syllabus statement so students are always made aware that your course will accommodate in accordance with UTD policy.

It is the policy and practice of The University of Texas at Dallas to make reasonable accommodations for students with properly documented disabilities. However, written notification from the AccessAbility Resource Center (ARC) is required. If you are eligible to receive an accommodation and would like to request it for this course, please discuss it with me and allow one-week advance notice. Students who have questions about receiving accommodations, or those who have, or think they may have, a disability (mobility, sensory, health, psychological, learning, etc.) are invited to contact ARC for a confidential discussion. ARC is located in the Administration Building (AD 2.224). They can be reached by phone at 972-883-2098, or by email at studentaccess@utdallas.edu.

Am I responsible for providing testing accommodations to students who are not eligible to test at the ARC?

Yes, providing testing accommodations is an institutional responsibility.  The ARC’s testing facility is reserved for students with the most complex accommodation needs.  For other students requiring testing accommodations, professors should arrange testing in one of three ways:

1. UTD Testing Center at Synergy Park
2. Professor-provided space (e.g., office or conference room)
3. Online with Honorlock

Visit our Testing Accommodations page for more information on scheduling accommodated exams at the UTD Testing Center at Synergy Park and providing a distraction-reduced testing environment.

I was previously able to schedule multiple tests/quizzes at a time for my classes as we have them weekly. Why must I now go to a website and approve each request?

For the ARC’s operations, scheduling multiple test sessions at once is inefficient, compromises security and eliminates one of the most important parts of the process: the student’s right to initiate when and what accommodations are needed. 

Our office often does not know for certain if students are going to take the test with us. Just because a professor reserved the space does not mean the student will show for that exam. Students also have the right to show up and take the test at the same time/place the class does without using the ARC. Requiring students to self-select the dates and times of their tests increases the likelihood they will use reservations made at the ARC and we will not be wasting the time and space when they do not. 

Further, tests often have different content or requirements from one another. It cannot be assumed students will need the same accommodations every time. Again, they need to initiate the request and specify what accommodations are needed for each test.

Why don’t I just send your office copies of all my exams just in case and have students go over there when they need accommodations?

Please do not do this. We receive a number of exams that are not assigned to a student which creates a security issue for you and confusion for us. 

Further, this gives the student the impression they can just show up and take a test with us whenever they want, which is not possible. Please only send exams when you have received the email indicating a student has requested accommodations.

I give pop quizzes that students don’t know about. How do those accommodations work?

Pop quizzes create numerous accommodation challenges. If a student is blind, the quiz may need to be converted to a digital format or Braille, which takes time. If the student cannot write, a scribe must be found. If faculty use “clickers” to record responses, these can create similar issues. 

It’s important to work out options for these on a case-by-case basis. Students need to discuss and maybe try out the arrangements before such quizzes. Typically, faculty will allow students needing such accommodations advance notice of pop quizzes so that they can schedule with the ARC or faculty may evaluate the student one-on-one. 

Many students elect not to use their accommodations on short quizzes, but this is not universal and shouldn’t be assumed. Please contact the ARC so we can work with you and the student to find options for pop quizzes if solutions are not readily apparent.

Why do you need my test two days in advance? 

We often need to convert your test to Braille or other formats. This requires significant time. It is extremely important for us to have at least 48 business hours to do this and to avoid the confusion and difficulty created by tracking down tests at the last minute. Anxious students must often wait to start their tests while we obtain a copy. 

We are so appreciative when faculty provide tests on time. It greatly reduces stress for students when they know their exam is scheduled and we have their test. 

The student’s accommodation letter does not have “Eligible to Test at the ARC.” Am I supposed to provide the accommodations? 

Yes. Preventing discrimination due to disability is an institutional obligation, and the ARC’s testing capabilities are limited to serving students with the most significant accommodation needs. 

We appreciate our partners within academic units and the UTD Testing Center (SP2 11.175) who enable us to accommodate our students with disabilities. Please let us know if you need assistance accommodating a student. 

We have a few tips for professors who need to arrange alternate testing: 

• If the classroom is available, allow a student to start the test early or finish later. 
• Use office space, conference rooms, and other appropriate areas to test students or move a test taker to a suitable location after class (never a hallway or stairwell).
  • Consult your department/program head to locate options or even see if there is a space in the building to dedicate as an alternative testing room. 
• Move the test time to when an alternate space is available. 
• Use white noise machines, offer ear plugs, control ambient noise so you can test more than one student at a time in a room. Consider dividers/study carrels which can be placed on top of desks. Contact us for specific products, if necessary. 
• Post signs that read, “Quiet please, test in progress.” 
• Ask the student to see the testing arrangement prior to the test date. 
• Feel free to ask the ARC to provide feedback on your space.
• The UTD Testing Center is a second option if you find it impossible to accommodate students yourself. 

Are the UTD Testing Center’s scheduling requirements the same for students with disabilities?

Yes, the UTD Testing Center’s scheduling requirements apply to all students, including those with disabilities.  The requirements are:

1. Faculty must submit exam requests 5 days before the test date in RegisterBlast.
2. Students must reserve their seats at least 2 days before the test date at utd.link/testreg.

Visit our Testing Accommodations page for a step-by-step guide on scheduling accommodated exams at the UTD Testing Center.

Note: Faculty members may choose to provide accommodations themselves if they find it difficult to meet the Testing Center’s scheduling requirements.

The UTD Testing Center wants my exams two days in advance, expects me to schedule the tests myself five days out, and then students have to reserve their seat 72 hours before the test time. Is this the same for test takers with disabilities? 

Yes. Faculty often elect to provide the accommodations themselves if they cannot work within the constraints of the UTD Testing Center. 

How do I verify emails regarding testing from the ARC?

Please don’t hesitate to contact the ARC for verification.  (Email: studentaccess@utdallas.edu, Phone: 972-883-2098)

Do I need to provide all the testing accommodations listed on the student’s accommodation letter?

The accommodation process is flexible and interactive.  Here’s what you need to know:

• The accommodation letter serves as a starting point for discussion.
• Students may opt not to use all listed accommodations.
• Discuss with the student which accommodations apply to your specific class.
• If a student chooses not to use a specific accommodation, document this decision.
• Never deny accommodations without first consulting the ARC.  There may be alternative options available.

A student wants to take my exam at a different time than the class.  Do I have to allow this?

We ask faculty to allow flexibility in exam start times to accommodate ARC testing hours, UTD Testing Center availability, student schedules (especially those with back-to-back classes), and extended time accommodations.  Students eligible to take exams at the ARC must schedule within ARC testing hours, Mon-Thu (8:30am-5pm) and Friday (8:30am-3pm), on the hour (e.g., 10am, 11am).  If a student’s scheduling needs are not related to time constraints above, we encourage flexibility, but faculty have the final say.

The student wants to move the test time after I have already confirmed their reservation in your system. Must I allow this? 

No. Students are told they can only modify an existing reservation with the ARC if the professor moves the date for the entire class. Any retakes for emergencies, etc., are at professor discretion. 

Can I just email ARC to schedule a test for the student or submit the form for the student myself? 

Please do not do this. Our process only works when students personally initiate the request for accommodations on each test. 

We encourage faculty to give students the necessary links to schedule their own tests: 

• The form for students with “Eligible to Test with ARC” on their letter of accommodation
• The form for students without “Eligible to Test with ARC” on their letter of accommodation 

If I allow a student to begin their test early at the ARC, can I require them to stay until the class finishes to prevent them from sharing exam details with classmates?

No, this is not possible.  The ARC lacks space for students who are not testing or receiving services.  We instruct students to arrive promptly and depart immediately after their exams.  During finals, we utilize space in various buildings and cannot provide a waiting area.

My student has a paper, assignment, etc., due. Can you collect it from them when they are taking their test in your office? 

No. Other than exams taken at the ARC, we cannot collect or deliver any items between professors and students. This creates an administrative burden resulting in significant challenges to our process of administering more than 5,000 tests a year. 

What measures are taken to maintain test security? 

We take several steps to ensure your exams are secure: 

• Hard copies of exams are locked up. 
• Digital copies of exams are accessible only to those with appropriate credentials. 
• Security cameras are in use. 
• Test takers must show ID at check in. 
• Exam copies are given back to faculty or destroyed. 
• Only full-time staff oversee exams. 
• Cellphones and communication devices are taken from students or secured in lockers. 
• Signs are posted and students are informed of the rules and procedures. 

We welcome the opportunity to show faculty our facilities and security measures. 

I haven’t received scheduling emails for students with testing accommodations.  What should I do? 

No action is required unless you receive an email.  Students are responsible for scheduling their exams using the ARC exam form.  You may send a reminder email to these students (use blind copy).  Here’s a template:

“Dear Student,

You provided an ARC accommodation letter earlier this semester.  We agreed you would notify me of accommodation needs at least 5 days before an exam by completing the ARC exam form. Since I haven’t received notification, I will assume you are not using testing accommodations for this test.”

What is a “distraction-reduced testing environment” and how do I create it? 

A “distraction-reduced testing environment” is a space that minimizes distractions while maintaining a reasonable level of comfort for the students taking accommodated exams.  It does not need to be completely silent and can include other test-takers.  For more details on creating a distraction-reduced environment, visit our Testing Accommodations page.

Do I need to accommodate students who do not schedule their exams at least 5 days in advance to test at the ARC and the UTD Testing Center?

It depends. Typically, you should accommodate them unless it fundamentally alters your course.  Consult the ARC before denying accommodations.  Inform students about the 5-day scheduling deadline in your syllabus.  Be lenient if test dates change or were not announced earlier in the semester.  Same-day requests are usually not considered reasonable.

Can I give a different test to a student with a disability? 

Generally, no.  We understand faculty concerns about test security when students take exams at different times/locations due to accommodations.  However, it is challenging to guarantee that a different test is the same difficulty level as the original.  We do not recommend giving different tests, but if you feel it is essential, consult with the ARC first.

Acceptable alternatives to different tests:

• Changing the question/number order
• Randomizing question order for ALL students

Not recommended:

• Different questions only for students with disabilities
• Changing test format (e.g., multiple choice to free response)

Rare exceptions:

• Changing test format may be appropriate for students with specific disabilities (e.g., oral exam for a student who cannot write)
• Always consult with the student and the ARC before changing test format

If you are considering a different test, prepare to discuss:

• Your reasoning
• Potential impacts of not giving a different test
• How you would ensure equal levels of difficulty
• Departmental recommendations
• Alternatives you have considered
• Input from the student

What is a service animal? 

Under the ADA, a service animal is defined as a dog or miniature horse that has been individually trained to do work or perform tasks for an individual with a disability. The task(s) performed by the animal must be directly related to the person’s disability. 

Is an in-training service animal allowed in public places? 

Yes, in-training service animals are afforded the same access as service animals. Texas law allows a trainer of a service animal accompanied by an animal for training purposes in public places and common transportation carriers. 

Does a service animal have to register with the ARC or the ADA coordinator? 

Registration is not required. Texas law requires public facilities to admit a person with a disability accompanied by a service animal for assistance. The University may not require documentation such as proof that the animal has been certified, trained or licensed as a condition for entry. 

Does a service animal have to be on a leash? 

It depends. Service animals must be under control, which means harnessed, leashed, or tethered, unless the device interferes with the service animal’s work or the individual’s disability prevents using the device. In that case, the individual must maintain control through voice, signal or other effective controls. 

When can service animals be excluded or removed? 

Service animals are allowed in public facilities. If a particular service animal is out of control and the handler does not take effective action to control it, or if it is not housebroken, that animal may be excluded or asked to be removed from the premises and the handler may be subject to discipline. Also, if admitting service animals would fundamentally alter the nature of the service or program or there is a legitimate safety requirement, service animals may be prohibited. 

Service animals may be excluded from certain areas where the animal’s presence may compromise a sterile environment. In teaching labs where hazardous materials may harm a service animal, the TA or instructor should have an interactive conversation about the hazards with any student accompanied by a service animal. 

If an animal is excluded, the individual with a disability is given the opportunity to participate in the service, program or activity without having the service animal on the premises. 

What can University personnel ask to determine if an animal is a service animal? 

In situations where it is not obvious that the animal is a service animal, personnel may ask only two specific questions: (1) Is the animal a service animal required because of a disability? (2) What work or task has the animal been trained to perform? 

Personnel are not allowed to request any documentation for the service animal, require that the service animal demonstrate its task or inquire about the nature of the person’s disability. 

What is an emotional support animal (ESA)? 

The main purpose of an emotional support animal (ESA) is to provide emotional support, well-being, comfort or companionship to their owners. 

An ESA must be domesticated and well-behaved. Their presence is generally limited to residential facilities including their common areas. 

Is an emotional support animal (ESA) considered a service animal? 

No. An ESA is not a service animal and not afforded access to all public places. ESAs are afforded protections under the Fair Housing Act (FHA) only. 

Requests to possess an ESA in residential facilities, including their common areas, must be approved by the ARC and University Housing. Students must present a letter from a doctor or professional licensed in Texas stating details about the patient’s needs, treatment and how the animal is a vital part of that treatment. The ESA also must have all their immunizations records from their veterinarian. 

ESA registration from an outside organization is not recognized. 

How many service animals do we have on campus? 

There is no way to know how many service animals are on campus since, by law, registration of service animals cannot be required. 

Does the ADA require service animals to be professionally trained? 

No. Service animals can be trained by their owner or by another handler. People with disabilities are not required to use a professional service animal training program. 

Can I approach or pet a service animal? 

It’s best to allow the service animal to do its job without distractions. 

It is against the law for a person to assault, harass, interfere with, kill or injure in any way a service animal. Such actions may impede or interfere with the animal’s performance of its duties; such actions also may endanger or injure a person with a disability who is using a service animal or a trainer who is training a service animal. 

Is a service animal required to wear a service vest, patch or special harness identifying them as a service animal? 

No. The ADA and State of Texas do not require service animals to wear a vest, ID tag, 

Is a service animal required to have vaccinations? 

Yes. Individuals with service animals are not exempt from local animal control or public health requirements. 

Where can I go for additional resources? 

• Department of Justice FAQs
• Office of the Texas Governor

Who is eligible for disability services? 

Students with a significant physical, mental or learning impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, such as walking, learning and performing manual tasks, are eligible for disability services. 

Students requesting services and accommodations are required to register by submitting current and comprehensive disability documentation. 

Are all students with disabilities registered with the AccessAbility Resource Center? 

No. Many students either choose not to register for disability services or they have not met the eligibility criteria for services. Faculty members do not have to provide unregistered students with accommodations. 

How do I know if a student is registered with ARC? 

Upon student request and verification of eligibility, an Accommodation Letter is prepared for each student by ARC. Students are responsible for meeting with instructors, providing the Accommodation Letter, and making arrangements for course accommodations. 

If a student requests accommodations without providing a current Accommodation Letter, you should refer the student to ARC. However, if the disability is visible (use of wheelchair, hearing aids, service animal, etc.) and the request is reasonable, you should provide the accommodation while the student is in the process of registering with ARC. 

What is an accommodation? 

An accommodation is the modification, adjustment or elimination of a barrier to a program or service that enables an individual with a disability to participate on an equal basis. Extended time for test taking, providing print material in alternate formats, sign language interpreting and using FM listening devices are examples of accommodations frequently provided for UT Dallas students. 

What should I do if a student gives me an Accommodation Letter from ARC? 

When a student gives you an Accommodation Letter and discloses that they have a disability, you should meet privately with the student and establish a means of providing the accommodations listed in the letter. Faculty members also can greatly assist the student by asking what can be done in the course to facilitate learning and access to the class. 

If you are unsure of how to provide an accommodation, please call ARC at 972-883-2098. A staff member will be glad to provide clarification or necessary support. 

Why is the ARC sending Accommodation Letters to me now? I thought students had to personally provide these. 

During the conversion to online classes due to the pandemic, it became evident that it would be more difficult for students to self-disclose their accommodation needs in person. Further, some faculty indicated a preference to have the letters verified as all students were sending them by email. Distributing them directly from the ARC should address these concerns; however, it is still essential for faculty to acknowledge receipt of the letter and how the accommodations will be provided in their classes with each student. 

Who is responsible for providing accommodations? 

Faculty members who have been notified in a timely fashion by ARC or the student with an Accommodation Letter are legally responsible for fulfilling classroom accommodation requests. ARC will assist with accommodations that require putting materials in electronic format, computers for test taking, or providing adaptive equipment for the lab. Faculty members who are unable to accommodate students should contact ARC. 

What is the ARC’s policy on confidentiality? 

All disability information must be treated confidentially and shared with others (such as a TA) only for the purpose of providing accommodations. 

What if I think a student has a disability but they have not said anything to me? 

Have a private discussion with the student about your observations of their academic performance. Refer the student to all support services available such as the GEMS Center, ARC, Counseling Center, etc. Refrain from speculating about a disability. 

Where can I find more information to assist students with disabilities? 

Please call ARC at 972-883-2098 for more information. The ARC website is a good resource for additional information. 

What does this mean exactly? 

The student has provided substantial documentation that would make it extremely hazardous for them to attend class in person. Examples of such conditions include students who are immunocompromised due to chemotherapy, transplants or other medical conditions. In light of the pandemic, it is reasonable for faculty to stream the content of the classroom to these students so they can observe and participate safely. 

Synchronous online learning using Microsoft Teams and/or Blackboard is the preferred method. 

The purpose of academic accommodation is to provide an equal opportunity to learn by ensuring access to the environment and course content. This can enhance accessibility for students who may not be able to attend in person due to such severe medical issues/conditions. 

How do I convert my tests and class content to an online format? 

Educational Technology Service has extensive resources to help you convert your content to an online format on its website. 

I’ve never been asked to do this. Why am I just now seeing a request like this? 

It is essential to consider this type of new accommodation because the risks associated with the COVID-19 virus can be so great to certain students. 

Why can’t this student just show up to take tests? 

The documentation provided by the student indicates substantial risk for being in crowds and environments that potentially create significant viral spread; therefore, even coming to class just to take an exam would not be reasonable. 

My class has attendance requirements because students are graded while I observe what they are doing and they must access specialized lab equipment that cannot be moved. How can I allow remote learning? 

In rare cases, it can be a fundamental alteration of your class, which is not required even by accommodation. However, to make this decision it is essential that faculty consult with their department/program heads and the AccessAbility Resource Center before denying an accommodation. 

Online tests compromise my exam security. Why can’t these students take their exams on campus at the AccessAbility Resource Center? 

The ARC testing facilities are now limited to students with testing accommodations that require adaptive technology or other more specialized needs. The facilities are not large enough to provide social distancing for more than a very small number of test takers. 

This semester we are recommending that professors consider giving online exams for all students who are eligible to take a test with accommodations. Faculty still may use Honorlock or other remote proctoring services. 

How should I talk to my professor about class absences? 

We recommend students talk to professors to help bridge the gap between a personal/family situation, illness or injury, or any other matters that may be impacting ability to temporarily attend classes, focus on classwork, and/or meet academic deadlines. 

To assist with communications, we recommend the following tips to students: 

• Email professor to convey initial situation. 
• Discreet language you can use: “medical reasons,” “unexpected personal situation,” “ongoing health needs,” “family situation,” etc. 
• Utilize professor’s office hours or ask to schedule an appointment to follow up about missed coursework. 
• Share documentation that can verify dates and situations. 
• Plan ahead to discuss missed work (quizzes, assignments, exams, class participation). 
• Try to create an action plan with the professor after meeting/talking. 
• Continue to follow up with professors for additional missed classes. 

Example letter to professors: 

Dear Professor Smith, 

I am writing to share with you that I have not been able to attend your class [Course name/Unique #] on the following dates [Insert dates here] due to [insert situation here: e.g., illness/flu] situation. 

I am sorry that I have not been able to attend class; the situation was unexpected, but I have been trying to catch up on course work as best as possible. I can provide documentation to verify the situation, if needed. 

Can we set up a time to meet and discuss missed work and possible next steps? 

Thank you in advance for your time. I look forward to talking to you soon. 

Sincerely,
Your name
EID 

What transportation services are available for people with disabilities on and around campus? 

There are a few transportation services available: 

• Campus Accessible Parking and Transportation
• Comet Cruiser:
  • 883 Route Map (PDF)
  • 883 Route Schedule
• DART Paratransit Services
• Campus Map