DISABILITY DOCUMENTATION GUIDELINES:
It is the role of the DS office to coordinate the delivery of accommodations that are both reasonable and appropriate to eligible students with disabilities. For that reason we apply certain standards to the documentation which we accept:
► It must be from a professional qualified to evaluate a particular type of disability (e.g., physician, psychologist, licensed mental health counselor, psychiatrist, audiologist, in their area of expertise).
► It should clearly state the current, specific diagnosis that constitutes the disability. Terms such as “implies” or “suggests” are not acceptable.
► The report must be typed on letterhead and the evaluator’s name, title, date, and signature must be present. A medical diagnosis written on a prescription pad, even though signed, is not adequate.
► Test results or an explanation of how the diagnosis was reached, and a clear determination that it substantially impacts academic performance or other major life activity, must be included.
► It must be current. The acceptable time frame varies somewhat based on the type of disability (see note about Learning Disabilities below). Generally for evaluations obtained during adulthood, documentation should be dated within three years of the time it is submitted to DS.
► A diagnosis supported by testing for a specific learning disability should include a cognitive and achievement assessment that is based on adult measures (typically after the age of sixteen adult norms will have been used). The resulting report should include all subtests and standardized scores from the comprehensive assessment battery.
► If the documentation you have does not meet MSU’s standards regarding provider’s credentials, date of evaluation, or diagnostic detail, you will be required to obtain a new evaluation before receiving services. While the university will not provide or pay for the evaluation, the DS office can make a referral for testing in the surrounding community. If you have any doubts, we recommend submitting your documentation as early as possible for our review.
