UMiami Disability Services: Accommodation Guide for Students

Coral Gables students needing academic accommodations can navigate the process through the University of Miami's Office of Disability Services (ODS). The ODS ensures an accessible educational environment for students with disabilities by determining eligibility and providing necessary accommodations.

To receive accommodations, students must register with the ODS. This requires submitting documentation verifying eligibility under the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act of 2008 (ADAAA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Students then meet with an ODS staff member to discuss their needs and appropriate accommodations. Students must complete this process each semester to continue receiving support.

Newly admitted students requesting accommodations should complete the Request for Accommodations Form and provide comprehensive documentation from a qualified professional. This documentation must confirm a disability and specify the need for particular accommodations. Documentation guidelines are available. Students can submit the completed form and documentation via email to [email protected] or by fax to 305-284-1734. The ODS will review the materials and contact the student to schedule an initial meeting.

Currently enrolled students follow a similar process. They can find the Request for Accommodations Form on CaneLink, under the 'Academics' tab within the 'Advising & Disability Services' section. Like newly admitted students, they must provide comprehensive documentation and submit it via email to [email protected] or fax to 305-284-1734. The ODS will then review the submission and schedule an appointment to discuss the student's needs.

All submitted documentation must be current, generally within the last three years unless otherwise specified. It should include a clear diagnostic statement of the disability, a summary of assessment procedures, relevant educational, medical, and psychological history, a description of functional limitations, and specific accommodation recommendations with their rationale. The documentation must come from a licensed or certified professional and cannot be from a family member. The University of Miami’s Camner Center for Academic Resources does not provide diagnostic evaluations or funding for them. Students should contact their medical insurance provider for assistance finding qualified professionals.