Documentation of Disability

Appropriate documentation is required which includes a report prepared by an appropriate licensed professional that clearly diagnoses a disability. Documentation requirements are similar to those adopted by the Educational Testing Service and the Association for Higher Education and Disabilities. Documentation on file must:

Clearly state the diagnosed disability.

The diagnosis must be specific. For example, terms such as "learning styles", "learning problems" do not constitute appropriate diagnosis of a learning disability.

Be current, generally within the past five years for LD, last 6 months for psychiatric disabilities, or last 3 years for all other disabilities.

The Center director reserves the right to request an updated or more extensive evaluation. Students who are considering obtaining an evaluation may wish to refer to the Educational Testing Service guidelines at www.ets.org/disability. Specific guidelines are given for various disabilities that include recommendations in selecting a qualified professional and understanding the testing process.

Include complete educational, developmental and medical history relevant to the disability.

Scores for educational and psychological tests used in the assessment should be included.

Include a copy of the most recent report or evaluation containing the actual scores used to diagnose the presence of the learning disability.

Diagnosis of a learning disorder is based on test scores.  Copies of a student's IEP or 504 plan may be useful but not sufficient without the actual test scores.

Provide specific information on how the disability interferes with college life and educational performance.

The examiner should support recommendations for accommodations with specific test results or clinical observations.

Diagnostic reports must include the names and titles of the examiner as well as the dates of testing.

Forms are available to provide verification of conditions other than LD. You can give the appropriate form to your health care provider. These provide a useful format to follow in providing the necessary information. Copies of psychological and educational reports may be sufficient if completed within the appropriate time frame.

Form for verification of ADHD
Form for verification of Psychiatric/Psychological Disability
Form for verification of Physical Disability
Form for verification of Chronic Health Disability

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