Documentation Guidance

Students who are requesting accommodations and/or services under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and/or Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 must provide documentation that verifies the existence of a disability and the need for related accommodations. This documentation should demonstrate that there is a current condition that interferes with one or more major life activities, as defined by the ADA Amendments Act of 2008. Acceptable forms of documentation may include but are not limited to, assessments and letters from a healthcare provider, mental health professional, school psychologist, teachers, or other educational professionals. Relevant documents may also include neuropsychological or psycho-educational evaluations, Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), 504 Plans, and Summaries of Performance.

Documentation Guidelines

1. Completed by a licensed or credentialed evaluator.

2. A diagnostic statement identifying your disability or condition, including:

• A description of the diagnostic criteria and methodologies used.
• Evaluation methods, procedures, and tests, along with their dates of administration.
• A clinical narrative, observations, and specific results.

3. A description of the student’s current functional limitations, which should include:

• The current impact of the disabling condition(s).
• The severity, frequency, and pervasiveness of the condition.

4. Details of any past accommodations and/or services received.

5. Recommendations for future accommodations, which may include:

• Auxiliary aids or assistive devices.
• Support services.
• Specific accommodations, along with an explanation of how these are expected to alleviate the functional impacts of the condition.

Please note that documentation purchased off the internet typically does not support the determination of services. Additionally, having accommodations provided in another setting (such as K-12 education) does not automatically mean that those accommodations are reasonable in a university setting. However, this information is helpful to OSAA when making determinations regarding eligibility and reasonable accommodations.

OSAA makes the final decision regarding eligibility. All documentation must be submitted before the requested accommodations are available.

Lastly, please be aware that in order for OSAA to communicate with third parties (such as parents, guardians, and providers), a signed Release of Information form must be on file.