Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply for accommodations?
Contact the Student Accessibility Office at studentaccessibility@mmc.edu or call 615.327.6312 to request a meeting to discuss the process. Students must complete the Student Accessibility Resource Packet and submit appropriate disability documentation. Accommodations are not retroactive, and implementation timelines may vary depending on the nature of the accommodation request.
What is considered a disability?
A disability is any physical or mental impairment, verified by a qualified professional, that substantially limits one or more of such persons’ major life activities. Examples of conditions that may qualify as disabilities include, but are not limited to:
- Chronic Health Conditions – such as diabetes, migraine disorders, fibromyalgia, and other ongoing medical conditions that may affect energy, attendance, or daily functioning.
- Sensory Impairments – including reduced or complete vision or hearing loss.
- Neurological or Mobility-Related Conditions – such as seizure disorders, traumatic brain injury, multiple sclerosis, or other conditions affecting movement, coordination, or neurological functioning.
- Attention, Learning, or Neurodevelopmental Conditions – including ADHD, specific learning disorders, and autism spectrum disorder.
- Mental Health Conditions – such as anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, bipolar disorder, or other psychological conditions that substantially limit one or more major life activities.
Who is considered a qualified professional?
A qualified professional is a licensed or credentialed provider with comprehensive training and relevant experience in diagnosing and treating the documented disability. The evaluator must practice within their area of expertise and be able to provide a clear diagnosis, describe the current functional impact of the disability, and explain how it substantially limits one or more major life activities in an academic setting. Depending on the disability, this may include licensed clinical psychologists, neuropsychologists, psychiatrists, physicians, neurologists, licensed clinical social workers, audiologists, ophthalmologists, optometrists, or other appropriately trained medical specialists. Documentation must be current, thorough, and reflect present functioning rather than diagnosis alone.
Will my disability information remain private?
Yes. SAO keeps disability information private and uses it only to determine and provide accommodations.
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) protects the privacy of and access to students’ educational records, including disability documentation. Section 504 and the ADA protect students from discrimination with respect to the handling of medical records and disability documentation.
The information about students’ disability status and use of accommodations remains a private matter between the student and Meharry Medical College personnel with a vested educational interest.
What are common accessibility services and support?
SAO assesses accommodation requests on an individual, case-by-case basis. This list of common accessibility services and supports is not exhaustive and does not guarantee approval. Examples may include:
- Exam-related accommodations (e.g., reduced-distraction testing environment, extended time when appropriate)
- Note-taking supports or recorded materials
- Assistive technology (e.g., screen readers, speech-to-text software)
- Temporary accommodations for documented short-term disabilities
- Accessible housing
- Emotional support animals
What if I disagree with the decision?
Students may appeal eligibility or accommodation decisions by submitting a written request to the ADA Specialist at studentaccessibility@mmc.edu within seven (7) business days of the original decision. The Student Accommodations Appeal Committee will review your appeal submission.
How do I apply for accommodations related to pregnancy or lactation?
Students who are pregnant may request academic adjustments through SAO, which coordinates with the Title IX Coordinator. Typical adjustments include common pregnancy-related needs such as attendance flexibility, lactation breaks, or access to lactation space. If pregnancy results in a medical disability that substantially limits a major life activity, documentation may be required and reviewed under disability accommodation guidelines.
Can I receive accommodations for a temporary injury or medical condition?
Students with temporary conditions, such as surgery, short-term illness, or physical injury, may qualify for temporary accommodations. Documentation must verify the condition and expected duration. Accommodations last only as long as the documented need exists.
How do I request an Emotional Support Animal (ESA) for campus housing?
Students requesting an ESA in campus housing must complete the ESA Request Packet and provide documentation verifying a disability-related need for the animal. ESAs may not reside in housing until SAO approves and submits the written approval. SAO requires an annual ESA renewal process, which includes providing SAO with updated vaccination records.
Can I bring a service animal to campus?
Yes. Students with disabilities may bring a service animal, as defined by federal law, onto campus. The animal must be housebroken and under the handler’s control at all times. While registration is not required, students are encouraged to voluntarily notify and register their service animal with SAO to help ensure a smooth and supportive campus experience. Students with service animals are not exempt from local animal control or public health requirements.
Do my accommodations apply to licensing or board exams?
Accommodations do not automatically apply to licensing or board exams. External testing agencies, including licensing and board organizations, have their own processes and documentation requirements for accommodations. Students must apply directly to those agencies. SAO can help guide you through the process.
Questions and Support
Contact SAO if you have further questions about accommodations, accessibility, or implementation.
- Email: studentaccessibility@mmc.edu
- Phone: 615.327.6312
SAO works collaboratively to support accessible access while maintaining the academic integrity of Meharry Medical College programs.