Frequently Asked Questions

How is college different from high school with regard to services for students with disabilities?

There are several differences that students should be aware of. Please see How College is Different from High School.

Are 504 Plans and IEP accepted for use in documentation of a disability at the college level?

504 Plans and IEP's are not considered to be acceptable documentation, however, this information is useful in understanding prior academic experiences of the student. Testing used to document a disability may be considered if current (usually within three years) and administered by a professional, and if such testing and evaluation meet guideline requirements and are deemed adequate to the College in documenting a substantially limiting physical or mental impairment.

Will I receive the same accommodations that I received in high school?

Requested accommodations must be consistent with the College's academic goals and standards. Accommodations are approved on a case-by-case basis, based upon individual student's requests. Therefore, accommodations may vary, are required to be reasonable, and are subject to the current needs of the student. Students should not assume that accommodations provided in high school will be provided in college.

When do I contact Central Michigan University about my disability?

Upon matriculation, students receive information regarding the procedure for disclosure. Students should contact the Office of Disability Support Services as soon as possible.

What is considered to be acceptable documentation?

Documentation must be current, it varies depending on the disability, and is outlined in the "Documentation Guidelines". Central Michigan University reserves the right to determine the adequacy of submitted documentation.

I have a disability but no current documentation. What should I do?

The Office of Student Disability Services can assist students in obtaining the documentation necessary by conducting an initial screening and then referring students to a local practitioner if necessary.

What types of classroom accommodations are considered?

Typical accommodations depend on the disability and include, but are not limited to, extended time on tests, alternative (distraction-reduced) testing location, note takers, scribes, tutors, recorded materials, large print materials, etc.

I think I have a disability that interferes with my academic performance but I have never been tested. What do I do?

Student Disability Services can assist students in obtaining the documentation necessary by conducting an initial screening and then referring students to a local practitioner if necessary.

Is there special advising available for students with disabilities?

Yes, you may contact any of the staff of Student Disability Services, work with your content area advisor, work with staff in Academic Success Centers in the residence halls or work with the staff of Academic Assistance and Advising.

Are housing accommodations available?

Yes, upon matriculation, students should complete their housing and meal plan registration on-line. At that time students will be asked if they have any special considerations for their housing needs. Additional documentation supporting special requests will be necessary. Documentation may be submitted to Student Disability Services.

If I have a handicapped sticker on my car, do I need to buy a CMU Parking Permit?

Any vehicle parked on Central Michigan University streets or property by a Central Michigan University student, faculty member, staff member, resident of a University housing unit, visitor or vendor, must be registered with the CMU Police Department. There must be displayed on such vehicle the permit or permits received on such registration. In order to legally park in an accessible (or "handicapped") space, a vehicle must additionally display either (a) a State of Michigan certificate of identification or special automobile registration plates issued for the handicapped under the Michigan Motor Vehicle Code; or (b) a similar certificate of identification or special automobile registration plates issued by another state.

Be aware that Michigan law states that hanging placards can be displayed from the rearview mirror only when the vehicle is parked. It is illegal for the placard to be hanging from the rearview mirror when the vehicle is being driven. Any questions about parking and permits can be answered by the CMU Police Department Parking Services division, 989-774-3083.