Types of Accommodations

Academic accommodations (examples)

• Extended time on exams — additional time when processing speed or stamina is impacted.
• Distraction-reduced testing location — quieter space to take exams.
• Note-taking support — peer notes, instructor notes, or approved technology.
• Alternative format materials — accessible PDFs, e-text, large print, Braille.
• Assistive technology — screen readers, text-to-speech, speech-to-text.
• Attendance/flexibility considerations — when symptoms intermittently affect attendance; coordinated with faculty.

Non-academic accommodations (examples)

• Housing adjustments — room type/location, A/C, single room, proximity considerations.
• Meal plan adjustments — medically necessary modifications coordinated with Dining Services.
• Parking exceptions — including first-year residential exceptions when warranted.
• Emotional Support Animal (ESA) — with appropriate documentation and approvals.

Common scenarios & possible supports

• ADHD / Executive function — extended time, reduced-distraction testing, organization tools, note-taking support.
• Chronic health / Fatigue — flexibility considerations, extended time, exam breaks.
• Concussion / TBI — reduced screen exposure, alternative formats, extended time, quiet testing space.
• Mobility / Physical — accessible classroom locations, seating considerations, parking/housing adjustments.
• Sensory (vision/hearing) — captioning/ASL, alternative formats, screen readers, large print/Braille.
• Mental health — flexibility considerations, reduced-distraction testing, housing adjustments as needed.
• Learning differences — alternative formats, extended time, note-taking support, assistive tech.

These examples illustrate how accommodations can remove barriers; SAS determines reasonable supports through an individualized, interactive process.

Service Animals vs. Emotional Support Animals (ESA)

• Service Animals are trained to perform tasks directly related to a person’s disability.
• ESAs provide comfort and are considered as a housing accommodation.

For ESAs, see the ESA request process. For Service Animals, refer to the campus policy (link if applicable).

Temporary or short-term conditions

If you have a temporary condition (e.g., injury, concussion), SAS may be able to help with short-term adjustments. Email sas@jcu.edu to discuss options; we’ll advise on next steps and any documentation needed.

What SAS evaluates

• Functional impact in academic and/or residential settings.
• Documentation from a qualified professional (see guidelines).
• Interactive process — a conversation to determine reasonable supports.

Privacy & consent (who sees what)

Your disability information is private. Faculty receive only the accommodation letter you choose to send through AIM—not your diagnosis or documentation. With your consent, SAS can discuss details with you and relevant offices to implement accommodations.