Frequently Asked Questions
What Questions do you have?
Our FAQs are here to help you get the information you need. If you don’t see your question listed or need additional information, contact us at disability@charlotte.edu or call at 704-687-0040.
I need accommodations for my disability. How do I get connected for services?
To get started, visit our Getting Connected to DS webpage. This page will guide you through our 3-step process.
Why does Disability Services need documentation?
Documentation helps us understand your specific disability and how it impacts you academically and in your daily functioning. Students provide valuable information regarding their disability and the barriers they experience. Supporting documentation is necessary because the disability and its impact is not always readily observable. You can find more information about our requirements on our Documentation page.
Can I use my high school IEP or 504 Plan as documentation?
While an IEP or 504 Plan can be a helpful starting point, it often lacks the detail needed. You are welcome to submit your IEP or 504 Plan, but please be aware that we might need additional documentation to determine your eligibility.
Why do I need to schedule an Interactive Meeting?
An Interactive Meeting is your first meeting with your DS staff member after your documentation has been reviewed. In this meeting, you will discuss your specific needs through an interactive process and work together to determine the appropriate accommodations. Accommodations are not determined until this meeting is complete. Your staff member will also give you access to the DS Student Portal, our system for managing accommodations.
How do I notify instructors about my accommodations?
You will use our online system, the DS Student Portal, to manage your accommodations. Through the DS Portal, you will:
- Request accommodations and send your official Accommodation Letters directly to your instructors.
- Schedule tests and exams in the DS Test Center, if applicable.
If you are a returning student and have difficulty accessing the DS Portal, contact our office at disability@charlotte.edu. We’ll help by reviewing your accommodations with you and reactivating your access, especially if it has been a while since you last used our services.
Should I discuss my accommodations with my instructors?
Yes, it is essential that you connect with your instructors after sending your Accommodation Letters through the DS Portal. This is your chance to discuss your accommodations and ensure you are both on the same page.
How do I talk about my accommodations while protecting my privacy?
Your Accommodation Letter does not reveal your diagnosis, and you are not required to disclose that information to your instructors. When you talk with them, focus on how you use your accommodations. For example, you might say, “I use a separate setting like the DS Test Center to help reduce distractions.” Or, “I use the Genio Notes app to help me capture all the lecture details.”
If you need guidance on how to talk with your instructors, your DS staff member is here to help you develop talking points.
Am I required to take my test or exam in Disability Services?
No, you are not. While we provide testing accommodations regularly in the DS Test Center for students with disabilities, you also have the option to discuss arranging testing directly with your instructor. If you choose to test in the DS Test Center, you will use the DS Student Portal to schedule your tests and final exams.
If you are planning to test with your instructor, you must arrange the accommodations with them in advance. Do not wait until test day to make this request. If your instructor has questions about providing your accommodations, please refer them to our office.
For more information, visit the Testing link under Academic Accommodations on our website.
I am eligible for supplemental class notes, but I haven’t received any. What should I do?
There are several student responsibilities in securing class notes. First, you must get connected with Disability Services. Then you must be set up in the DS Portal to be able to request the supplemental class notes accommodation. If this accommodation is approved, you will then request a Note Taker via the Portal Note Taker module. Once you request your Note-Taker in the online system, an email will be sent to the class in which class notes are needed. We ask that you wait a week for notes to be provided. If you are not receiving notes or experience any issues with quality, please contact your assigned DS staff member. However, if faculty provide students access to detailed class notes then a note taker may not be secured. Visit Class Notes and Student Responsibilities pages to learn more.
Can Disability Services change my professor’s assignment deadlines because of my disability?
Most deadlines for course assignments are identified on the course syllabus, which students receive at the start of the semester. Assignment extensions due to disability are not typically provided unless there has been a severe exacerbation resulting in extended absence from classes. Students should plan to start large assignments early to allow the time to complete their work. If you experience absences or miss deadlines due to a major disability-related event, contact Disability Services for further support. Additional documentation may be required. You must also follow up with your professor(s) as soon as possible to address missed classes or assignments. Excessive absences and missed or late assignments can have a negative impact upon your overall grade, regardless of disability.
I have difficulty accessing some books in the library due to my disability; is there support available?
YES. Students experiencing difficulty with accessing shelved books or resources can request assistance from a librarian. Students can visit the online library catalog and once the book information is found, it can be printed and given to a librarian for further assistance.
My accommodation needs have changed and/or I have some concerns. What should I do?
If your needs change or you have concerns related to your accommodations, notify your assigned DS staff member as soon as possible. If the situation is complex, schedule an Advisement appointment to get further assistance.
What if I have a temporary condition such as a broken arm or leg?
Temporary conditions, depending on severity and impact, may qualify for accommodations. Sometimes, if the issue is a short-term stay in the hospital, students need to connect with Student Assistance and Support Services (SASS) instead of Disability Services. Sometimes students need both the SASS Office *and* Disability Services. Feel free to contact us with your questions.
I’m pregnant. Will the Office of Disability Services provide me with accommodations?
For students, pregnancy itself is not considered to be a disability. However, medical conditions or complications may develop during the pregnancy that require temporary disability accommodations. Students who need guidance regarding a typical pregnancy – how to navigate doctor’s appointments and your due date, for example – should contact the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX. If disability-related accommodations due to pregnancy are also needed, Disability Services works in conjunction with the campus Office of Civil Rights and Title IX Office to assist our pregnant students with those disability-related accommodations. Documentation for Classroom Accommodations from your treating physician will be required if accommodations for a disabling condition are needed.
I’m taking continuing education courses and need academic accommodations. What do I do?
When registering for a continuing education course, indicate your accommodation request on the registration form. In addition, you must contact Continuing Education Office AND Office of Disability Services with your specific accommodation needs. Please note that at least 2 weeks notice is needed to ensure adequate time for accommodations.