The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a federal law that prohibits discrimination against the disabled and applies to all colleges, universities and other educational institutions. The focus of the provisions of this law is on integration and equality.

A university is not allowed to make pre-admission inquiries about whether a student has any disabilities. Once the individual has met the university's admission standards, that individual should not be barred from attempting to complete a course of studies. Providing meaningful access to courses for disabled persons is not preferential treatment, it is aimed at providing equal opportunity.

When a student's disability prevents him or her from fulfilling a course requirement through conventional procedures, thoughtful consideration should be given to alternatives, keeping in mind that academic standards must be maintained. Innovative and flexible solutions may include extended assignment deadlines, use of word processing equipment, or taped responses in class or on examinations.

The responsibility for determining a City University of Seattle student's eligibility for accommodation rests with the Disability Support Services office within our Admissions and Student Services division. Contact Disability Support Services at 1.800.426.5596 ext. 5228 or via email.