Documentation provided will be used by the Office of Disability Services to evaluate requests for accommodations or auxiliary aids. The evaluation process includes a review of the documentation itself and in the context of documentation, on the fundamental goals and essential standards of the program, course, service, or benefit in question. The evaluation process will generate a list of potentially reasonable accommodations that will then be reviewed based on potential effectiveness, preferences of the requester, maximum level of integration, and the potential for an undue financial or administrative burden.
It is the responsibility of the student to obtain his/her documentation and to present a copy to the Office of Disability Services. Documentation needs to be provided in English. Any correspondence regarding adequacy of the documentation will be sent to the student. It is the student's responsibility to obtain additional information or testing when requested. The final determination of appropriate accommodations rests with the Office of Disability Services based on a review of the provided documentation as outlined below. Disability Services is the designated service provider for students with disabilities.
Guidelines for Documentation of a Disability
If you are experiencing a medical condition or chronic illness (including, but not limited to, gastrointestinal disorders, diabetes, vision challenges, and mobility impairments) then please read the general documentation guidelines to understand what is needed by ODS. You may choose to use the Verification of Medical or Psychological Condition or Disability form to obtain the information needed from your treating clinician. If you had an IEP or 504 Plan in high school, you may choose to submit that as well.
Additionally, the following links take you to expanded information relevant to required documentation for other specific disabilities.
If you are experiencing a psychological disorder (including, but not limited to, major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and schizophrenia) then please read the general documentation guidelines to understand what is needed by ODS. You may choose to use the Verification of Medical or Psychological Condition or Disability form to obtain the information needed from your treating clinician. If you had an IEP or 504 Plan in high school, you may choose to submit that as well.
If you are living with multiple conditions or diagnoses which impact your academics or collegiate experience, you may choose to submit documentation from multiple treating clinicians. You may choose to obtain documentation from the clinician who knows your needs the best. For example, people living with autism may choose to submit documentation related to their unique experiences. A Verification of Medical or Psychological Condition or Disability form and a copy of an IEP/504 Plan may effectively document your current functional limitations and demonstrate your history of accommodations in academic settings.
You may always contact ODS and make an appointment for guidance at 540-568-6705.
Confidentiality Statement
All information obtained in diagnostic and medical reports will be maintained and used in accordance with applicable confidentiality requirements. All contact information and documentation received in Disability Services is kept in separate confidential files within the office.
No information concerning inquiries about accommodations or documentation will be released without written consent by the student.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did you have an IEP or 504 Plan in high school?
For individuals who have recently been receiving services from a public school system; the information requested would most likely be contained in the Psycho-Educational Evaluation report from your most recent Triennial Review. Some of the information may also be contained in an IEP, 504 Plan, or Transition Plan. You may wish to include this with your Psycho-Educational Evaluation report as supportive documentation. You must request this information separately from your high school transcripts and should make sure that it is received by Disability Services. Please review your high school documentation against the information outlined below for thoroughness.
Are you receiving services from a state rehabilitation agency?
For individuals who are or have been recently receiving services from a state rehabilitation agency; much of the requested information will be contained in the documentation regarding your eligibility for services and vocational plan. However, please check your documentation against the guidelines listed below.
Are you transferring from another college or university?
For individuals transferring from another college or university; information related to your disability will not be sent with a transcript request. You must request that information be sent to Disability Services separately. Additionally, the information JMU is requesting may or may not have been a part of your previous college's evaluation process. You should visit the appropriate link above to check your documentation against our specific guidelines.
