Columbia University Health Services

How will I know if a student with a disability is enrolled in one of my courses?

Students registered with ODS will present an Accommodation Letter to you that outlines ODS’ recommendations for accommodations for your course. ODS strongly encourages students with disabilities to present these letters at the beginning of the semester, however, some students elect not to for a variety of reasons. ODS advises these students that accommodations are not retroactive and are more difficult to negotiate later in the semester. If you suspect that a student has a disability and is in need of accommodations, please contact ODS to verify their status.

Why do students with disabilities often need testing accommodations?

Testing accommodations are designed to give the student equal access to the assessment and evaluation methods of the course. Testing accommodations do not alter the content of the exam or what the student is required to demonstrate on the exam, but rather alter the administration of the exam. Examples of testing accommodations include large print format, use of a computer to type the exam, use of assistive technology for the exam, and extended time to complete the exam. The intention of testing accommodations is to remove barriers that traditional exam administration presents to the student due to their disability.

How are reasonable accommodations determined by ODS?

Accommodations are determined on a case-by-case basis after ODS considers the student’s needs as described in their disability documentation. ODS has established strict disability documentation guidelines that provide enough information to determine the student’s disability status and their related accommodation needs. Faculty also have the opportunity to consult with ODS on the final determination of accommodations for each of their courses and students. Some accommodations may be appropriate in one course, but not in another.

Where are you located?

Morningside Campus:

2920 Broadway, Mail Code 2608
Alfred Lerner Hall, Room 802
New York, NY 10027

Office hours:
Mon, Tue, Thur, Fri- 9am to 5pm
Wednesdays- 11am to 7pm.


Medical Center Campus:

Medical Center, 101 Bard Hall
50 Haven Avenue
New York, NY 10032

Office hours at Bard Hall:
Mondays- 1pm to 5pm
Tues, Thurs- 10am-5pm

What should I do if a student approaches me about an accommodation that was not included in the Accommodation Letter from ODS?

Faculty should refer students to ODS to evaluate the student’s new request. ODS will review their request along with their disability information and consult with the faculty member to determine if the student’s requested accommodation is appropriate for that course.

What is assistive technology and what types of students with disabilities benefit from it?

Assistive technology is any piece of computer software, hardware, or equipment that makes technology accessible to people with disabilities. Examples of assistive technology include screen magnification software, screen reading software, Braille translation software, accessible computer or laboratory stations, or audio textbooks.

How can my student register with ODS?
Registration includes submission of both the Application for Accommodations and Services and disability documentation . The Application and disability documentation guidelines are available online and at the ODS office. After review of a student’s documentation and application, ODS will coordinate services and accommodations based on eligibility and an appointment will be scheduled for an orientation session. ODS works with students with various types of disabilities including learning, physical, hearing, visual, psychological, and chronic medical conditions.

Should my student disclose his/her disability status on the admissions application?
Columbia University does not inquire or require students with disabilities to disclose their disability status on the admissions application. Decisions around disability disclosure are personal ones, which should be carefully considered. Once students are admitted and enrolled, they should contact ODS to begin the ODS registration process to ensure that accommodations and services are in place for the start of their courses.

My student has difficulty with organization and time management, what resources are available at ODS to help him?
ODS offers a variety of support services to its students with disabilities, including individual consultation and skill building workshops that address time management and organizational skills. ODS has a full-time learning specialist on staff to assist students in these areas.

My student has a physical disability, how accessible is Columbia ?
All of Columbia’s programs and activities are accessible to people with disabilities. If a particular program or activity is scheduled for a venue that is not fully accessible, it is Columbia’s policy to relocate such events to accessible facilities that meet the needs of the individual student. ODS works closely with students to ensure that their residence halls and classrooms meet their access needs. Prospective students and their families visiting the campus may arrange for an access tour by ODS .

How will high school services differ from college disability services?

Go to the Parent and Family Guide

What are my rights? What are my student’s rights?
Columbia students with disabilities have the right to equal access to all programs, facilities, and resources offered by the University. Furthermore, they have the right to make self-directed decisions about their participation in all aspects of University life. With these principles in mind, ODS works closely with Columbia students with disabilities to ensure their equal access, to promote their independence, and to support them in the efforts to make informed academic and personal choices. More on Rights and Responsibilities .