To ensure that CASS can provide the appropriate accommodations, students are required to submit documentation that verifies their disability and outlines the functional limitations related to their academic performance. This documentation helps us determine reasonable accommodations that will best support the student’s success.
What Documentation is Required?
Documentation should include the following:
- Documentation must be recent (within the last three years) to ensure it accurately reflects the student’s current needs.
- Relevant medical, psychological, or educational history that supports the diagnosis and accommodation request (e.g., past IEPs, 504 plans, or neuropsychological evaluations).
- A formal diagnosis of the disability from a licensed professional (e.g., physician, psychologist, educational diagnostician) on their official letterhead.
- A description of functional limitations resulting from the disability in the academic environment. This includes how the disability affects the student’s ability to perform in class, take exams, or participate in campus activities (e.g., reading, writing, concentration, mobility, etc.).
- Recommendations for accommodations specific to the academic environment or housing accommodations. This may include extended time on exams, note-taking assistance, or housing accommodation recommendations.
Acceptable Documentation Sources
- Licensed healthcare professionals (e.g., medical doctors, psychologists, psychiatrists, or other qualified specialists)
- Educational diagnosticians or school psychologists for students with learning disabilities
Additional Notes
- If documentation does not fully meet the requirements, CASS may request additional information to complete the accommodation process.
How to Submit Documentation
Students can submit their documentation directly to CASS via:
- Email: cass@utep.edu
- In Person: Visit the CASS office in the Union Building East (Room 106)
What Happens After Documentation is Submitted?
Once your documentation is submitted, CASS will:
- Review the information.
- Schedule a meeting with the student to discuss their specific needs and reasonable accommodations they may qualify for.