What academic accommodations are
Academic accommodations are changes to how you learn, complete assignments, or write exams. They remove barriers so you can show what you know. You can receive accommodations for classroom activities, assignments, and tests.
Who is eligible
Any student who has a diagnosed or suspected disability can apply. This includes learning differences, mental health conditions, chronic health issues, and physical disabilities. You do not need a formal diagnosis to start the process, but you will need documentation from a qualified professional to approve your supports.
How to get academic accommodations
Follow these steps to get your accommodations set up before your term begins.
1. Register with Accessibility Services
You can register online or in person. Visit the registration page to create your account. You will fill out an intake form and describe your learning needs.
2. Provide documentation
To approve your accommodations, we need proof from a qualified medical professional. This could be a doctor, psychologist, or psychiatrist. The document must explain your diagnosis, how it affects your learning, and what supports would help you succeed. You can find a template on the support forms page. If you do not have documentation yet, you can still book a meeting to discuss interim supports while you gather the required papers.
3. Meet with a coordinator
Once your registration is complete, book an appointment with an Accessibility Coordinator. You can meet in person at our office or online. During this meeting, you will review your documentation and decide on specific accommodations.
4. Share your plan with your instructors
After the meeting, you will receive an accommodation plan. You will need to share this plan with each of your instructors so they can put the supports in place. You can manage this through your student account.
Your responsibilities
You are in charge of your accommodations. You must:
- Tell Accessibility Services about your disability and learning needs.
- Provide the required medical documentation in a timely manner.
- Renew your accommodation plan at the start of every term.
- Book accommodated exams early through the testing portal.
- Let your coordinator know if your needs change.
Privacy and confidentiality
Your medical information stays private. We follow provincial privacy law and will not share your details with instructors, parents, or anyone else without your written permission. Instructors only receive the approved accommodations, not your diagnosis or medical history.
Fees
There is no fee to register with Accessibility Services or to receive academic accommodations.
Contact us
Accessibility Services is open Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Phone: 519-555-0181
Email: [email protected]
Location: Hollis Hall, Room 210, Benchlands Campus