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Guidelines for Services
This guide is meant to serve as an informational source and reference regarding services available through Disability Resources (DR) for students with disabilities at the University of Kansas. Copies of this guide are available in alternative format upon request. KU has a "decentralized" system, and efforts regarding disability issues and accommodations are coordinated by DR. Each unit, department, and office on campus play a role in making the university (campus and programs) accessible. It is an individual's choice whether to self-identify, as well as if and when to use services. We primarily provide academic accommodations such as assistance in physical access to campus facilities, letters to faculty explaining suggested accommodations, extended test time, volunteer notetakers, interpreters, typists, and readers. Accessible transportation is also available for those students with temporary or permanent mobility impairments who are unable to use the standard buses.
- This guide is to be used as a reference.
- The services listed are the ones commonly provided, but individual needs are also considered.
- If service requests are not listed, please talk with the person responsible for coordinating services.
- It is your responsibility to self-identify, provide appropriate documentation, and each semester request services in a timely manner.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I qualify for services?
To be eligible for services you must provide written documentation from a qualified professional on the nature of the disability. Information should include test results/report, functional effects of the disability and/or medication, and recommendations. Once received, it will be reviewed and discussed with you with respect to appropriate accommodations. These steps are necessary prior to any services.
View required documentation criteriaWho can you talk to regarding services?
Any DR staff is able to answer basic, general questions and provide general information. However, questions regarding services should be directed to the individual responsible for coordinating Disability Resources, or to the director of the DR. During the initial meeting, services and your specific academic needs will be discussed.
Contact Disability ResourcesHow do you receive services?
You have the right to choose what services you desire to utilize and when. Needs may change or vary from class to class. Therefore, services are provided once you, the student, make a written request. The Accommodations Request Form (ARF) needs to be completed for each class that you are requesting accommodations in.
Accommodations are individualized to your needs based on the disability documentation and the functional limitations in the classroom. Students complete the ARF with his/her DR professional staff member. Depending on the nature of the requested accommodation or accommodations that are time intensive (e.g., sign language interpreting, books in alternate format) students should request services as soon as they register for classes. Otherwise, it is recommended that you go to your class and obtain a course syllabus before scheduling an appointment.
What about non-classroom issues?
DR also works with students to identify and resolve architectural, policy, and attitudinal barriers on campus. Such issues would include curb ramps or entrance ramps, braille signage; identifying courses that satisfy graduation requirements (e.g. math, foreign language); meeting with instructors/ GTAs/departments to educate or sensitize on disability issues. We coordinate with other departments regarding their accessibility and accommodation responsibilities.Because DR has ongoing contact with students regarding needs and issues, the office has a permanent representative on various committees that determine and prioritize accessibility needs.
In addition, we give input and make recommendations regarding campus-wide equipment purchases. Since each disability group is unable to have a representative on such committees, it is the desire of DR to be prepared to voice the issues and concerns of all groups. Therefore, it is important to share concerns, thoughts, and needs with us so that they may be presented.Information about campus, local, and national resources is available in the DR office.
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