Frequently Asked Questions

What documentation is needed in order to receive services/accommodations from the Office of Disability Services?

The documentation that is required depends on the disability.  In the majority of cases, a comprehensive psychological evaluation or medical evaluation from a licensed practitioner is required.  It must have been completed within the last three years.  It should include the following:

• Evaluator’s credentials, licensure/certification information
• Clear statement of disability, including diagnosis
• All relevant testing data including summary of inventories used
• Treatment information
• Recommendations for accommodations or services

Please note Individualized Education Plans (IEP) and Section 504 plans are valuable sources of information but not sufficient for documentation of a disability and establishment of accommodations. 

When do I send my documentation to CCU, and to whom do I send it?

It is important to get your documentation to the Disability Coordinator as soon as possible.  It may be mailed, faxed or brought to the office.  The address and fax number are as follows:

Office of Disability Services
Prince 211
P.O. Box  261954
Conway, SC 29528-6054
Fax- 843-349-2862

Can I get testing done to document my disability through the Office of Disability Services?

No.  The Office of Disability Services does not offer testing to document disabilities, but referrals to the local community are provided for students who need to obtain an assessment.

When do I need to meet with the Disability Coordinator?

Initially, you will meet with the Disability Coordinator for an  initial informational meeting. This meeting should take place during summer orientation or another time before the start of the fall semester. At this meeting, you and the disability coordinator will go over all of the documentation that you have provided to the office.  Together, you will determine a plan for accommodations that is tailored to your particular needs .

After the initial meeting, you must meet with the Disability Coordinator at the start of every semester. At these meetings, you will receive forms that will list your accommodations.  It is preferred that you meet with the disability coordinator several times throughout the semester to ensure your accommodations are in place and changes can be made as needed.

Why do I need to see the Disability Coordinator every semester?

At the start of every semester, you and the Disability Coordinator will fill out faculty notification forms.  These are the forms that inform your professors of the accommodations you require for their classes.  You will take a faculty notification form to each of your professors.  You and each of your professors can then discuss arrangements of the accommodations for that class. Since your classes and professors change each semester, new forms must be filled out each and every semester.  

What is the purpose of the testing center?

The testing center is a place that has a distraction reduced environment.  It is for students who need fewer distractions during their tests to do well. Also, it can be used for students who require extended time. This is only an option when it is impossible for the professor and student to resolve the logistics of the extended time test.

What do I need to do to be allowed to take my tests in the testing center?

Your documentation must show a need for testing accommodations.  Once it has been given to you as an accommodation, there are steps you must follow in order to schedule your exam in the testing center.  The disability coordinator will give you proctor forms. You must have your professor fill out this form.  It is your responsibility to give the completed form to the disability coordinator no less than FIVE days before the exam.  If this procedure is not followed, you will NOT be allowed to take the exam in the testing center.

What type of other services does the Office of Disability Services provide?

Read Aloud Software: The Office of Disability Services has software set up in the computer lab that can read texts.  We have the ability to scan in any document and the software will read the material to you.  It can read books, tests or any printed material.

Academic Coaching: The office also offers academic coaching to all students at CCU.  Non-disabled students are eligible for academic coaching as well.  Academic coaching is offered in both one-on-one and group formats.   Academic coaching may focus on study skills, time management, test taking skills,  organization, and other topics.  This is not a tutoring session, but a time to learn the skills needed to be academically successful.   Academic assistance in specific subject areas is available through the Learning Assistance Centers, www.coastal.edu/lac.

Where is Disability Services?
 
The Office of Disability Services is located in Prince 211.  It is open from 8:30 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.   Appointments are usually required.  If you have any questions regarding a disability and/or accommodations, please do not hesitate to contact the Office of Disability Services at (843) 349-2305.