Frequently Asked Questions*

What defines a disability?

A physical or mental impairment that substantially limits (compared to most people in the general population) one or more major life activities, a history of such an impairment or being regarded as having such an impairment. A temporary impairment may be a disability if it substantially limits one or more major life activities for an extended period of time. Common, short-term illnesses that predictably resolve themselves do not “substantially limit” a major life activity and therefore are not disabilities under the law or this policy.

What is a reasonable accommodation?

Adjustments or auxiliary aids that facilitate equal access to KCU programs and activities, such as classrooms, laboratories, simulations and clinical trainings, including:
  1. Making existing facilities readily accessible to and usable by individuals with disabilities
  2. Acquisition or modification of equipment or devices 
  3. Appropriate adjustments or modifications of examinations, course materials or policies.
An accommodation is not considered reasonable if it is a device or service of a personal nature (unless also provided to individuals without disabilities), would be ineffective, are retroactively applied, would impose an undue financial or administrative burden on the University, pose a direct threat, or would fundamentally alter any essential requirement.

Will conversations about my disability be confidential?

Yes, all conversations about your disability and any accommodation you seek or secure are confidential, except as required by law or as necessary to assess and implement any accommodations.

I received accommodations at my previous institution. Will I automatically receive them at Kansas City University?

No, simply because a student received accommodations at another education institution or elsewhere does not automatically entitle the student to the same reasonable accommodation at KCU. The Student Disability Services staff will carefully review the disability being identified and all relevant paperwork to determine what accommodations are appropriate.

My doctor says I should get unlimited time for taking tests. Why has Student Disability Services only granted me extended time?

Student Disability Services has the authority to determine reasonable academic adjustments to facilitate equal access for qualified students, and the office has the knowledge, credentials and experience to do this. SDS often uses medical or other professional documentation provided by the students as a basis for making such decisions, but they are not required to follow the exact recommendations made in the documentation provided.

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

A student who thinks they may have a disability may schedule a meeting with Student Disability Services to discuss their situation. SDS can provide information and referrals to help a student seek an assessment.

*Information provided here is intended to summarize KCU policy. In the event of a conflict between KCU policy and information provided here, the KCU policy governs.