Documentation guidelines

Ensuring Equal Access at WSU Vancouver

Students seeking accessibility services at WSU Vancouver may provide documentation from qualified professionals to support their requests for reasonable accommodations. This process ensures that every student has equal access to university environments through a personalized, case-by-case evaluation. By combining student self-reports with professional insights, Student Accommodations and Disability Resources identifies specific barriers and implements the necessary auxiliary aids and services to support academic success.

Professional documentation serves to establish eligibility under disability guidelines, supplement the student’s personal account of their experience, and inform the development of effective accommodations. While WSU Vancouver accepts various forms of third-party information, providing detailed documentation that explicitly supports requested services helps expedite the process and ensures that accommodations are tailored to the student’s unique needs.

Documentation Standards

External documentation varies in value based on detail and the credentials of the evaluator. Students are encouraged to provide comprehensive information that links their condition to specific academic barriers.

For convenience, use the form below to assist your healthcare provider in submitting the necessary details:

Health Care Provider: Disability Verification Form

Acceptable Documentation Sources

Third-party documentation should highlight specific barriers in the academic environment. Examples include:

Assessments or letters from qualified professionals such as physicians, psychologists, or therapists.
Records from previous educational institutions, including IEP plans, 504 plans, or accommodation letters.
Documents from government agencies, such as the VA, DVR, or Social Security.

Required Elements

Submissions on official letterhead should include:

A formal diagnosis of disabilities or conditions.
A description of symptoms and their impact on learning.
Severity, duration, or progression of the condition.
Current medications and potential side effects.
Recommended accommodations and suggested strategies for success.

What if I have no documentation?

You are still encouraged to complete the Student Accommodations Application. Our office will meet with you to clarify your needs and determine if you qualify for “grace” accommodations while we help you navigate the documentation process.

Questions?

Main Email: van.accommodations@wsu.edu

Alternative Format: van.altformat.access@wsu.edu

Testing Services: van.testing.access@wsu.edu

Assistive Tech: van.assistivetech.access@wsu.edu

Deaf/HOH Services: van.dhh.access@wsu.edu

360-546-9421

Office: Netzhammer Hall, Room 110

Facility Locations & Hours

Main Office Netzhammer Hall, Room 110
8:30am – 4:30pm
Testing Classroom Room 160A (Student Wellness Center)
9:00am – 4:30pm

Student Self-Report

The student is the primary source of information regarding their own lived experience. A personal narrative is essential for establishing the need for specific adjustments.

Student Accommodations Application: An online portal where students describe their disability and the barriers they encounter in the classroom.
Initial Meeting: A consultation with an Accommodations Specialist to discuss the narrative, observe specific needs, and determine appropriate support through interactive dialogue.

How and When to Submit

Documentation is not required to schedule an initial informational meeting. If additional information is needed, a specialist will discuss the next steps during the first appointment. You may submit materials via:

Online Upload: Use the secure, FERPA-compliant link provided after completing your application.
Email: van.accommodations@wsu.edu
Secure Fax: 360-546-9421
In Person: Netzhammer Hall, Room 110
Mail: WSU Vancouver Student Accommodations, VCLS 110, 14204 NE Salmon Creek Avenue, Vancouver, WA 98686

Frequently Asked Questions

What if my documentation is incomplete?

Submit your existing records for review. The Accommodations Specialist may grant provisional accommodations while you gather further details. We can also help you identify local healthcare providers if you need updated evaluations.