Getting Started
How to Request support services
You may request services from the Office of Disability Services for Students (DSS) as soon as you are admitted to Indiana University, or if you are already enrolled in classes, as soon as you are diagnosed with a disability. While we recommend starting this process before the beginning of the semester, you may request assistance at any time of the year.
Please Note: if you are submitting a request for services and documentation of disability less than two weeks before final exams, your materials will not be reviewed until the following semester.
To request disability support services you will need to do the following:
- Complete a Request for Services form
- Provide comprehensive information from a licensed professional in the field who can document your disability (see Documentation Guidelines)
- Mail, fax, or hand-deliver these items to our office
Materials are reviewed by the appropriate DSS staff member in the order in which they are received. Please Note: The review process may take 3-4 weeks.
When the review process is complete, you will receive an e-mail from the DSS office stating the outcome of the review.
If you are determined to be eligible to receive disability assistance, you will receive information specifying the support services to which you are entitled. You will also be advised to do the following:
- Request memos to instructors
- Make an appointment for a New Student Orientation (NSO) by calling the DSS office at 812-855-7578.
If your materials lack sufficient information to provide determination of disability status, you will be told what additional information is needed and advised how best to proceed.
If you are determined to be ineligible to receive disability assistance, you will receive information detailing specifically why this determination was made. In addition, you may be referred to academic supports and resources available to all students at IU.
After your New Student Orientation, you will meet with your instructors to discuss how your accommodations will occur. Please Note: Your instructors will need at least 7 days’ notice of your accommodations in order to make arrangements for modified testing.
