Purpose of Documentation 

Accessibility Services facilitates an interactive process to understand your requests and determine appropriate and reasonable accommodations. Every request for accommodations is unique and explored on an individual, case-by-case basis. Therefore, the type of documentation required is going to be unique for each person. 


When determining what type of documentation is required, Accessibility Services is looking to answer the following questions:

  • Does the disability substantially limit one or more life activities?
  • Does the disability create barriers to access in the educational/physical setting?
  • Are the accommodations requested reasonable and appropriate?



Types of Documentation Accepted


Documentation should reflect functional limitations that are currently impacting you as determined by an appropriate profession. It is helpful for the documentation to include the following:

  • Specific diagnosis(es)
  • Functional limitations
  • Recommendations for supports, strategies, or services that may benefit you at HU

Please note that recommendations from an appropriate professional may not be "reasonable and appropriate" in a post-secondary setting and are not guaranteed accommodations.


Accessibility Services has not adopted a documentation currency requirement, but documentation will only be accepted if it reflections the present-day status of your functional limitations.


Documentation requirements may be waived if the disability is readily apparent or obvious (e.g., paralysis, total blindness, deafness).



Examples of Acceptable Documentation

  • Neuropsychological evaluations
  • Psychoeducational evaluations
  • Medical evaluations
  • Physiological assessments
  • Audiograms
  • Individualized Education Programs (IEPs)
  • Section 504 Plans



How to Submit Documentation

Documentation may be provided by mail, in-person during a meeting with Accessibility Services, or electronically.


Mailing Address:

Office of Student Services - Accessibility Services

Harrisburg University of Science and Technology

326 Market Street

Harrisburg, PA 17101


Email for Electronic Submission:

ADA@HarrisburgU.edu



Other Considerations

  • In addition to documentation, Accessibility Resources requires an Introduction Meeting (either in-person or virtual). We consider you to be a valuable source of information regarding the impact of your disability and the effectiveness of accommodations. Parents/guardians are welcome to attend that Introductory Meeting.


  • If the documentation provided does not support the accommodations requested, we may request more information.


  • Harrisburg University does not provide or pay for evaluations to establish a disability. However, we can help put you in contact with local resources and providers.


  • Documentation is maintained in a secure file with Accessibility Resources. Requests to share information with anyone external to HU will be considered only with your prior written approval. Files are usually maintained for 7 years beyond your last registration, after which they are destroyed.