Student FAQs

CASS supports students with a wide range of disabilities, including:

• Physical or mobility impairments (e.g. arthritis, use of a wheelchair, etc.)
• Learning disabilities (e.g., dyslexia, ADHD)
• Mental health conditions (e.g., anxiety, depression)
• Sensory disabilities (e.g., vision or hearing loss)
• Chronic health conditions (e.g. diabetes, asthma, cancer, etc.)
• Temporary disabilities (e.g. broken limb, injury, surgery, pregnancy related conditions, etc.)

All CASS services are completely free for eligible UTEP students.

CASS is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, excluding university holidays. CASS has extended hours during Finals Week only Monday through Friday, 7:00 AM-6:00 PM.

Visit cassportal.utep.edu and click on “New Student Application” to get started. You’ll complete a short form and upload documentation.

You’ll need documentation on official letterhead from a licensed medical or mental health provider that explains your disability, challenges or limitations, and how it may affect your academic access. Examples include:

• IEP or 504 Plan (for recent high school grads)
• Psychological evaluations
• We are unable to accept most medical discharge paperwork, prescription notes, x-rays, or lab results

Yes. All records and accommodation information are kept private and confidential under FERPA and ADA guidelines.

Accommodations are individualized on a case by case basis, but may include:

• Testing accommodations
• Housing Accommodations
• Note-taking support
• Accessible course materials
• Preferential seating
• Use of assistive technology

Once you submit your application and documentation, a CASS Coordinator will meet with you to review your needs and determine your eligibility.

Once your accommodations are approved, CASS will send a Letter of Notification to you and your professors. After the letters are sent, you’re encouraged to schedule a meeting with your professors to review your accommodations—especially if you have time-sensitive needs like exam arrangements or assignment accommodations. Open communication helps ensure your accommodations are fully supported.

Yes. You must log in to the AIM Portal each semester and request accommodations for your new classes.

These requests must be supported by current documentation from a qualified provider that clearly explains the disability-related need for the accommodation. Approval is also subject to availability of accessible housing units and designated parking spaces, so we encourage students to submit requests as early as possible.

CASS collaborates with Housing and Parking departments regarding requests for accommodations such as:

• Accessible dorm rooms
• Emotional support animals (ESAs)
• ADA Parking

If there are any changes to your registration or medical status, please contact CASS so that we may update your profile and accommodations as needed.

CASS provides a wide range of assistive technology and support resources to help you succeed academically. Available options include, but are not limited to:

• Magnification devices
• Smart pens
• Note-taking applications

To determine which tools and training opportunities best meet your individual needs, connect with your CASS Coordinator. They will work with you to explore personalized solutions that enhance your learning experience. There are no fees associated with assistive technology services at CASS.

CASS appointments can be scheduled virtually via TEAMS or Zoom, phone, or in-person.

CASS does not provide counseling services, but you can visit the UTEP Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS). Visit utep.edu/counsel for more info.

CASS provides accommodations assistance for both ESAs and Service Animals. For additional information, schedule an appointment to speak with a CASS Coordinator.