Step 1: Self-advocate

The first step in requesting accommodations is to self-identify as a student with a disabling condition. It is the student’s responsibility to disclose information regarding the nature and extent of the condition. The college does not assume responsibility for providing accommodations or services to students who have not identified themselves as having a disabling condition or followed the process for requesting accommodations.

You may begin this process by completing the Accommodation Request form through the Portal at ASC Services Page. If possible, attach your documentation to the Accommodation Request Form when submitting.

It is important to note that may take up to two weeks to review or process requests, depending on the time of semester. We strongly encouraged to request accommodations as early as possible. Current students may request supplemental accommodations at any time and are encouraged to make their semesterly requests for accommodations as soon as they become aware of the need. 

Accommodations cannot be applied retroactively; therefore, this entire eligibility process must be completed prior the implementation of requested accommodations. 
 

Step 2: Providing Documentation

To evaluate accommodation and service requests, the Accessibility Services Coordinator will ask for information about how the disabling condition affects functionality. It is the responsibility of the student to provide information that verifies that the student’s condition meets the definition of a disability as defined by applicable laws. Disability related documentation should provide information on the functional impact of the disability so that effective accommodations can be identified. Criteria for the source, scope, and content of documentation differs by disability type. Documentation may include assessments, reports, or letters from qualified evaluators, professionals, or institutions. The professional making the diagnosis of a disability should be an appropriately trained evaluator, such as a physician, psychologist, psychiatrist, or educational diagnostician.

Students may use the following verification form to facilitate the documentation process. It is preferred that supporting documentation is provided on the Wilson forms.

Disability Verification Form

Existing documentation, such as an IEP, 504 Plan, or Psychological Evaluation may provide sufficient information to determine eligibility for accommodations. Please see the attached list of documentation requirements related to specific diagnosis.

Accessibility Services Documentation Guide

Please contact the Accessibility Services Coordinator with any questions regarding documentation requirements or if you require assistance with this process.

Step 3: Intake Meeting

The intake meeting is a valuable step toward determining eligibility. Once a student has completed and submitted their accommodation request, the Accessibility Services Coordinator will contact the student to schedule an intake meeting. The purpose of the intake meeting is to learn first-hand, from the student, what functional limitations the student experiences and what accommodations the student is requesting. This interactive process allows both the student and the Accessibility Services Coordinator to work together to determine the most reasonable accommodations for the student. In some cases, depending on the nature of the disabling condition, the availability of precise documentation, and other individual factors, an intake meeting may be completed via email to expedite the implementation of accommodations. Students always have the right to a formal intake meeting and subsequent follow-up meetings at any time by request. 

Evaluation of Eligibility

In order to be eligible for accommodations you must:

  • Self-disclose a disabling condition that substantially limits one or more functional areas that include, but are not limited to, walking, talking, learning, hearing, seeing, or cognitive behavior.
  • Provide supportive information/documentation of such a disabling condition.
  • Provide an explanation of the individualized need for the requested accommodation(s) as it relates to your disabling condition.

As a courtesy to prospective Wilson College students, the Accessibility Services Coordinator will be available at Accepted Students Day and other such events or hold office hours to respond directly to questions about this process regardless of a prospective student’s admission status.

All information submitted to the Accessibility Services Coordinator becomes part of a student’s educational record at Wilson College as defined by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). All student documentation is kept in a secure, confidential online system. The student receiving services has the right to review and/or close their file at any time.