Students with Disabilities FAQs

Where can I get information regarding services for student with disabilities?

The UTMB Handbook of Operating Procedures for Students with Disabilities,  IHOP Policy 07.01.01.

What constitutes a disability?

As stated in the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act of 2008 (ADAAA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, disability is defined as having a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities; a record of having an impairment; or being regarded as having an impairment

What does substantially limiting mean?

Substantially limiting is defined as being unable to perform a major life activity, or significantly restricted as to the condition, manner or duration under which a major life activity can be performed, in comparison to the average person or most people.

Major life activities include, but are not limited to, caring for oneself, performing manual tasks, seeing, hearing, eating, sleeping, walking, standing, lifting, bending, speaking, breathing, learning, reading, concentrating, thinking, communicating, and working.

In addition, this may also include the operation of a major bodily function, including but not limited to, functions of the immune system, normal cell growth, digestive, bowel, bladder, neurological, brain, respiratory, circulatory, endocrine, and reproductive functions.

What is the process for registering as a student with a disability?

The student must contact the Institutional ADA Office to submit their re-quest for accommodations. This can be done via email or in-person. Documentation is required for obtaining student accommodations. Following the interactive process and upon receipt of all required documentation, the Institutional ADA Office will furnish the student and academic program with a letter outlining the student’s accommodation(s).

What kind of documentation is needed for accommodations?

A student intake form, a consent form*, and a note from the student’s provider are required to obtain accommodations. The note from the student’s provider must indicate the student's diagnosis and the accommodation(s) being requested, secondary to the student’s health condition. In some cases, documentation related to a student’s accommodations at a previous academic program may be requested as consideration for accommodations at UTMB.

I received accommodations in prior years. Can I use past documentation of my disability at UTMB?

This is determined on a case by case basis by the Institutional ADA Office. Before completing new testing, it is recommended that each student meet with the Institutional ADA Office to discuss their case and seek necessary options and resources.

What if I suspect I may have a disability but have never been diagnosed?

A student who thinks he or she may have a disability can contact the Institutional ADA Office to schedule an appointment to discuss his or her individual situation. Students who decide to request an accommodation will then provide adequate documentation to support their request for a 504 accommodation to the Institutional ADA Office. There are several resources available to students on a case-case basis. The same process will be followed, and documentation will be required as described in the previous explanations.

Is the Institutional ADA Office involved with the admissions process?

No, neither is a participant in the admissions process. All students must be “otherwise qualified” to attend UTMB and must meet the same admissions standards, regardless of disability, for each of the prospective programs at UTMB.

Are shuttle buses and other public transportation services accessible to students with disabilities?

Yes, shuttle buses are wheelchair accessible and all students are eligible to ride for free with current UTMB ID.

I am on crutches for a temporary injury. Can I get a special parking permit?

All requests for temporary parking accommodations must be addressed with the Institutional ADA Office. The ADA Office in partnership with the Parking Office will then review and determine what if any reasonable parking accommodation can be provided.

I have a temporary injury to my arm/hand. How can I take my tests?

If a student believes assistance is necessary, he or she can contact the Institutional ADA Officer to discuss what resources may be available on a temporary basis.

Are there any accommodations or considerations for students who are pregnant or parenting?

Yes. Contact the Institutional ADA Office for guidance. You may also refer to the UTMB Student Pregnancy and Parenting Policy for additional information IHOP Policy 7.1.9.

I need a medical leave of absence due to my health condition. Who should I speak to about it?

Contact the Institutional ADA Office for guidance as soon as you make this determination. Our office will assist you with navigating the required documentation and coordinating the medical leave of absence with your academic program.

Who are the ADA contacts for students?