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Understanding Accommodations

Learn how Student Accessibility Resources (SAR) works with students and faculty throughout the accommodation process. Explore how students register with SAR, how faculty are notified of approved accommodations, and what to expect when implementing accommodations in your courses.

How the Accommodation Process Works

Step 1: Student applies for accommodations

Students self-identify by completing the Student Accessibility Resources (SAR) online application and providing documentation supporting their request for accommodations.

Step 2: SAR meets with the student

A SAR team member meets with the student to discuss their disability-related barriers and determine appropriate accommodations.

Step 3: Faculty receive notification

Once accommodations are approved, SAR sends the student an official accommodation letter by email to their instructors. The letter identifies the accommodations approved for that student and semester.

Faculty Notice of Accommodations

Faculty will receive an official accommodation letter from Student Accessibility Resources for each student who has been approved for accommodations in their course for the current semester. This letter outlines the accommodations approved for the student and serves as the official notification to begin implementation.

Please note the following:

  • Only implement the accommodations listed in the student’s official accommodation letter.
  • If a student indicates they have accommodations, but you have not received an accommodation letter, please contact Student Accessibility Resources to confirm.
  • Accommodations are not retroactive and become effective on the date the accommodation letter is sent to faculty.

For additional guidance on implementing accommodations, visit our SAR Faculty Resources on Confluence. 

Referrals for Services

If a student discloses a disability, requests an accommodation, or you notice potential disability-related barriers:

  • Share SAR’s contact information with the student and encourage them to connect with our office.
  • Students must self-identify by completing SAR’s online application.
  • Faculty should not determine whether a student qualifies for accommodations. SAR works directly with students to evaluate accommodation requests.
  • Not sure how to approach the conversation? Contact SAR. Our team is happy to reach out to the student directly.