Frequently Asked Questions
Can my parents be involved in this process?
If you would like them to be. According to FERPA, you must complete a Consent to Release Information form to allow our staff speak with your parents. Contact sds-info@uiowa.edu fore more information. Continue reading...
I had a 504 plan in high school. Will it transfer to the University of Iowa?
No, it will not. Services received during K-12 are covered under different legislation than those received during college. A 504 plan is useful in terms of highlighting what has been helpful to a student in the past. However the range of accommodations and services available in college may differ. Continue reading...
Who is responsible for paying for documentation to verify my disability?
You are responsible. Please review the Documentation Guidelines. If you have questions about where to obtain the necessary documentation, please contact our office. Continue reading...
Should I self-identify that I have a disability during the admission process?
Disclosing your disability during the admission process is voluntary and a separate process from requesting accommodations. The University of Iowa will not discriminate against you due to your status as an individual with a disability. If you are applying under the Individual Review Process and believe that your disability is... Continue reading...
If I am a student with a disability attending the University of Iowa, will my accommodations coordinator and instructors seek me out to make sure I am provided services?
No. You must self-identify as an individual with a disability to receive services from our office. Each semester you must follow the process discussed with your Accommodations Coordinator to obtain updated Letters of Accommodation. Continue reading...
Should I tell my academic advisor about my disability?
That is your choice. For example, if reading is difficult for you, it might be helpful to tell your academic advisor about this so they avoid suggesting a number of reading intensive courses during the same semester. Continue reading...
If I have received accommodations at a different college or university, will I automatically receive the same accommodations at the University of Iowa?
No. Documentation review decisions are made independently at different institutions. Continue reading...
How will you determine if my condition meets the definition of a disability that is used in college?
Our documentation guidelines are public. The documentation of your condition must be current and specific. If you are having testing done for use in requesting accommodations at the University of Iowa, please refer the assessor to this resource. Once we receive your documentation and application, we will review your materials and provide... Continue reading...
What if I disagree with an accommodation decision that has been made by SDS?
If you disagree with an accommodation decision made by SDS, please make an appointment with the SDS Director to discuss your concerns. Appeals beyond that point may be addressed with the University of Iowa ADA Compliance Coordinator. Continue reading...
Do instructors have a legal responsibility to accommodate qualified students with disabilities?
Yes. Accessibility is essential and should be in the forefront of course planning. If you are concerned about accommodations for a class, please contact SDS immediately at (319) 335-1462. The Department of Education, Office of Civil Rights (OCR), and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandate students' rights to accommodations... Continue reading...
