Testing and Accessibility Services FAQ

ECU TESTING AND ACCESSIBILITY SERVICES FAQ
A guide to frequently asked questions and their answers regarding Services and Disabilities at East Central University.

What types of services do you offer?
Our services are tailored to the student’s needs, and are determined on a case-by-case basis. Some commonly requested accommodations include:

• Extended testing time
• Reduced distraction testing environment
• Text-to-Speech Software
• Alternative format books and class materials such as E-Text or Braille
• Speech recognition software
• Screen magnifiers or enlargement of printed material
• Note takers

What is a disability and what type of documentation do I need to qualify for services?
Under the Americans with Disabilities Act, the term disability means: a) a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more of the major life activities (including learning) of an individual, b) a record of such an impairment, or c) being regarded as having such impairment.
East Central University is committed to compliance with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations regarding the reasonable accommodations needed to provide equal opportunity to qualified individuals with disabilities.

As far as documentation goes, each student is responsible for providing documentation that supports their request for accommodations and services. The documentation should be on official letterhead and signed by a professional qualified to make the evaluation (including information about license or certification and area of specialization) and must clearly establish that the student has a disability as defined by federal regulations, and fully support the request for accommodation.

The complete Documentation Guidelines are on the website in PDF form.

Does an IEP or a 504 Plan apply to higher education?
Both IEP’s and 504 Plans are written for students in K-12. Colleges and Universities are not obligated to follow either plan. The student, and Testing and Accessibility Services staff engage in an interactive process to set up a plan that is appropriate for higher education. Typically, students see accommodations that are similar to accommodations that they have had in the past.

How do I apply for services?
If you are a new student and require accommodations to help facilitate the admissions process, please notify the Office of Admissions before your visit and let them know how we can help you. To apply for our services, gather your documentation, and schedule an initial appointment with our office. We highly recommend sending your current documentation of disability in advance of your intake appointment!

I have utilized these services before and am returning to school. Can I still receive services?
Yes! But remember that each student must request services each semester. The Request for Services form is located in our links column.

Do I need to provide new documentation to do so?
As long as you are requesting the same accommodations, you will not need to provide new documentation. If you are requesting new accommodations, you may be asked to provide new documentation as part of the interactive process.

I have a disability. Do I have to apply for services?
It is entirely up to the individual student. Our services are available for students with qualifying disabilities that choose to self-identify and want to receive services from our office. While we encourage independence, we also think students should utilize any resources available to them to reach their educational goals.

What should I do if I suspect I have a disability and want to receive accommodations?
If you suspect you have a disability you will need to provide documentation of that disability to ECU. A qualified professional who is licensed or certified to diagnose the disability in question must supply this documentation. An appointment should be scheduled with our office to review the documentation and the need for services. See Documentation Guidelines.

How will I know if I qualify for services?
At your scheduled meeting with us, your documentation will be reviewed. If you qualify for services, your specific needs will be discussed. All necessary paperwork will be completed at that time.

What role do my parents play in the process?
Students who are 18 years old or older are legally recognized as adults. In this case, the student is responsible for their own accommodation requests and disability-related decisions. However, students are encouraged to have an open dialogue with their parents. Parents can be a great source of support.

Are your services confidential?
Absolutely! Confidentiality is a major concern and we take it very seriously. All records are treated with the utmost care to ensure our students' privacy and confidentiality is never breached.

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