Centre for Accessibility at FDU Vancouver
Fairleigh Dickinson University’s Vancouver Campus, through the Director of Student Services, provides reasonable academic accommodations for FDU Vancouver students who submit current (within the last 3 years) documentation from a qualified professional verifying a disability.
Accommodations support equal access but do not alter course requirements or exempt students from demonstrating learning outcomes. Once accommodations are approved, ideally at the start of the semester, students and instructors should meet privately to discuss how the disability may affect coursework and what adjustments are needed to ensure equal access.
Examples of Academic Accommodations
Appropriate academic accommodations may fall into one of several categories:
- Services: Reader services, changes to the classroom environment, note-taking.
- Alternative media: Large print, recorded textbooks, braille materials.
- Adaptive technology: Adaptive computer keyboards, assistive listening devices.
- Accommodations to Policies, Procedures, Practices: Alternative testing, alternate test formats, course substitutions.
- Other adaptations that enable a student to enjoy equal access to the benefits and privileges of the college’s programs, services and activities.
Most Common Accommodations Granted
The following are frequently granted accommodations. Please contact our office to discuss your specific needs.
- Extended test time: Typically time-and-a-half. Instructors may arrange extended time before/after the scheduled exam, during office hours, or at another agreed time. Exams can also be proctored by our office.
- Distraction-free testing: A quiet space provided by the instructor or arranged through the Director of Student Services.
- Note-taking support: Supplemental class notes. This does not replace attendance. If a note-taker is unavailable, alternative accommodations will be provided.
- Priority registration: Available to students with disability-related needs, allowing registration on the first day of priority access.
- Calculator use: Students with math-related disabilities may use a personal basic (non-scientific) calculator on exams.
- Reader support for exams: Assistive technology is typically provided; if unsuitable, a reader will be arranged by our office.
- Laptop/computer use: Students may use personal laptops for in-class work. Exams requiring a computer will be written at the Writing Centre.
- Preferential seating: Students who benefit from sitting at the front should coordinate directly with their professor.
Frequently Asked Questions
- If I register with the Centre for Accessibility, will that show up on my academic record?
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No. All disability documentation and information related to a student with a disability is maintained in a confidential file.
- Are there separate admission standards for students with disabilities?
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No. Students with disabilities must meet the same admission standards as their peers.
- When and where do I send my disability documentation?
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After completing admission and confirming your attendance at FDU, submit your disability documentation to the Director of Student Services. Our staff will review it according to the established guidelines and notify you of approved accommodations or request additional information if needed.
- If I am receiving accommodations elsewhere, will I automatically qualify for the same at FDU?
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No. The Director of Student Services reviews all disability documentation under FDU’s guidelines, so your accommodations may differ from those previously granted. You must submit your documentation to the Director for review.
- I cannot write due to a broken arm, do you provide assistance for temporary disability?
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Yes. We do provide customized academic accommodations for temporary disability.
Contact Information
9 AM to 5 PM
Closed Weekends and Holidays