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Formal Complaint Procedure

Student Accessibility Resources (SAR) takes student concerns, complaints and grievances seriously and is committed to addressing them appropriately and in a timely manner.

Students may appeal an accommodation decision or submit a formal complaint regarding the implementation of an accommodation. The resources and processes below provide information about how to submit a concern and request a review. 

Appeals and Complaints Process

Students who wish to appeal an accommodation decision or file a complaint regarding services provided by Student Accessibility Resources (SAR) should follow the process below:

  1. Director of Student Accessibility Resources (SAR)
    The student should first submit their appeal or complaint in writing to the Director of SAR. The Director will review the concern, consider relevant documentation and information, and provide a written response or resolution.
  2. Assistant Vice President/Dean of Students
    If the student is not satisfied with the Director of SAR's decision or resolution, they may submit a written appeal to the Assistant Vice President/Dean of Students, who will review the matter and provide a written determination.
  3. Vice President, Division of Student Affairs
    If the student remains dissatisfied following the Assistant Vice President's determination, they may submit a final written appeal to the Vice President for Student Affairs. The Vice President will review the matter and issue the university's final institutional determination.

Additional Guidelines 

  • Appeals and complaints should clearly identify the decision, action or concern being challenged and explain the basis for the appeal or complaint.
  • Students should provide any relevant documentation or information they wish to have considered.
  • Each level of review will consider the information available from the prior review and any additional information submitted by the student.
  • The University will make reasonable efforts to address appeals and complaints in a timely manner and in accordance with applicable university policies and federal and state requirements.

Other University Resources

Student Ombuds

The Student Ombuds serves as an alternate resource for all students to complement other existing channels of communication and conflict resolution. Such problems may be related to grades, a difference of opinion with instructors, an interpretation of university policies, and/or other administrative issues. Students seeking guidance or assistance related to their University of West Florida (UWF) experience–both academic and nonacademic– should contact the Student Ombuds Office via the Submit Your Concern(s) form. 

Student Grievances

The Student Grievances Policy (SA-27.03) provides students the opportunity to bring complaints to the attention of the University. The Student Grievances Policy may only be used to grieve a University action or decision when there are no appeal policies associated with that particular University action or decision. 

Equal Opportunity Office

Students who believe they have experienced discrimination, harassment or retaliation can contact the Equal Opportunity Office at eop@uwf.edu or 850.474.2694 pursuant to the University Policy, Prohibition of Discrimination, Harassment and Retaliation‌.