1.     If I am not a Vocational Rehabilitation client, can you help me?

        Yes.

2.     Does DS test for LDs and AD/HD?

        No.  We maintain a list of resources for this service that may be obtained from Disability Services, 115 Johnston Hall.

3.     I have AD/HD.  What services are available to me at DS?

All the services provided by DS are determined on an individual basis.  Consideration is given to your needs based on the documentation regarding your disability. 

4.     What are accommodations and how do I receive them?

Accommodations are modifications or changes to limit the impact of a person's disability.  In order to receive accommodations, you must request them and provide documentation of your disability and how it impacts you in the academic environment.  Once accommodations are determined, you are responsible for requesting your accommodations each semester.  This is done by going to the DS website at www.lsu.edu/disability and clicking the link for Accommodation Letters.

5.     If I register for accommodations, who will have access to my documentation?

        DS staff will have access to your documentation but your disability records are confidential.

6.     What services are available for students with psychological disabilities?

Services include disability management counseling, academic accommodations, information/referral, academic crisis intervention, and advocacy. 

7.     If I have consideration for absences, does that mean I don't have to attend class?

No.  Class attendance is extremely important and may be considered an essential component of the course or program.  This accommodation only applies if a class is missed for disability-related reasons.  If you miss class, you are responsible for contacting your instructor and making up any missed work as soon as possible. 

8.     Does DS provide tutoring?

No. Tutoring is offered through the Center for Academic Success on campus.  You may also contact the department of the course in which you are having difficulty for a tutoring referral.

9.     Who is responsible for getting the documentation I need to apply for services?

You are responsible for getting the appropriate documentation to an DS staff member.  An DS staff member may assist you in facilitating this process.  However, you must follow up with your provider.  All related costs incurred are your responsibility.

          10.  I have a medical condition. Is that considered a disability?

If you have a medical condition, you may be eligible for accommodations if the condition results in a functional limitation in a major life activity.

11.   I have a learning disability. Will LSU waive entrance requirements because of my disability?

No. The University does not waive entrance requirements for students with learning disabilities.  All students with disabilities must be “otherwise qualified” in order to attend LSU.

12.   Will my transcript indicate that I received accommodations?

          No.  Your disability records are confidential and are not part of your LSU transcript.

13.   Does the University have tuition scholarships available for students with disabilities?

No.  LSU does not have tuition scholarships specifically designated for students with disabilities. Students with disabilities are eligible for scholarships or other financial aid to the same extent as they would be if they did not have a disability.

14.   I am unable to walk long distances because of my disability. What is available to me?

You may be eligible to receive a handicapped or medical parking permit that would allow you to park closer to your classes.  In order to obtain a medical parking permit, you must contact the office of Parking, Traffic and Transportation.

15.   I am enrolled in an independent study course. What do I need to do to receive accommodations?

You must complete and submit an Independent Study Accommodation Packet.  This packet requires you to complete a Request for Accommodations Form and to submit disability-related documentation according to DS documentation guidelines.  Documentation forms for all disability types are included in the packet.  

16.  I am an incoming freshman. Can I get accommodations for Spring Invitational or Freshman Orientation placement tests?

Yes.  Accommodations are available for otherwise qualified persons with disabilities.  Please contact DS at 578-5919 for more information.

17.   I am taking a graduate entrance exam. Can I get accommodations?

Yes.  Contact an DS staff member and bring the necessary paperwork from your testing instructions booklet to receive accommodations.  (Note: Updated documentation may be required).

18.   If my doctor makes accommodation recommendations, will I receive those accommodations?

While recommendations are considered when determining reasonable accommodations, they are not mandatory. Your doctor makes these recommendations to aid in accommodation determination.

19.   Do I have to complete a Request Accommodation Letter Form every semester?

Yes.   In order to receive accommodations, you must complete a Request Accommodation Letter Form (RALF) every semester.  It is recommended that the form be completed within the first three days of class.

20.   Are "disability" and "handicap" the same thing?

A "disability" is a condition caused by accident, trauma, genetics, or disease that may limit a person's mobility, hearing, vision, speech, or mental function.  A person may have more than one disability.       

A "handicap" is a physical or attitudinal constraint imposed upon a person; for example, stairs, narrow doorways, and curbs are handicaps imposed upon people with disabilities who use wheelchairs.

21.   Are accommodations retroactive?

No.  Accommodations are not retroactive.  Accommodations for otherwise qualified students with disabilities do not take effect until you have completed registration with DS and have provided the faculty member with your Semester Accommodation Letter.  You must give faculty members at least three (3) school days notice before use of an accommodation.  DS cannot require the instructor or anyone else to make changes in grades for assignments/exams given prior to notifying the instructor of the accommodations.

22.   Does LSU/DS pay for all interpreting/captioning services?

Yes.  If a student meet his/her responsibilities, LSU/DS pays for all interpreting/captioning services provided to deaf and hard of hearing students for both classroom and other University functions.

          23.  How do I request an interpreter or captionist for my classes?

Complete a Semester Accommodation Letter Request Form (blue form) requesting services for your classes at least two (2) weeks prior to the beginning of the semester.  Return this form to the Coordinator for Deaf and Hard of Hearing.

24. How do I request an interpreter or captionist for out of class meetings such as tutoring, review sessions, or meetings with faculty members?

Complete a Communication Facilitator Request Form and return it to the Coordinator for Deaf and Hard of Hearing at least twenty-four (24) hours in advance.

         25.  Why does my interpreter/captionist leave when I am late for class?

Interpreters and captionists are required to wait 10 minutes after the beginning of a class.  If you do not arrive prior to the interpreter or captionist leaving, you will receive a "no show" for that class.