FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q. Is there a separate application process for students with disabilities applying to
     Baruch?

No, you follow the same application procedure as any other student.

Q. Is there a Learning Disability Program?
 
We do not have a separate program for students with learning disabilities. We do, however, provide reasonable accommodations for students with learning disabilities. To receive accommodations it is necessary to schedule an appointment with the Director of Disability Services and provide documentation of disability.

Q.  Will I get the same accommodations I received at another college?

Not necessarily. Each college has it own criteria of standards, which relates to what is essential to its programs. This may affect what are considered reasonable accommodations for you. Also, we may ask you for additional documentation if we feel your documentation does not give us the information we need to determine reasonable accommodations.

Q.  Do you have a tutoring program for students with disabilities?

No, we do not. Tutoring is not considered a reasonable accommodation. We are, however,  mandated to provide equal access to all our programs. For example, if our tutoring center  provides only group tutoring and your disability prevents you from fully participating and benefiting from tutoring in a group, we must accommodate you with individual tutoring. If your disability prevents you from accessing print materials such as graphs and charts, we are mandated to provide you with a person to describe and help interpret the material. Think of this person as a “translator” rather than a tutor. 

Q. Can I take exams in your Office?

It depends on the nature of your specific disability and accommodations. We always encourage faculty to administer exams with accommodations. However, there are instances in which your professor will be unable to do this. For example, if you require the use of assistive technology you will need to take the exam at the Office of Services for Students with Disabilities. If, however, your accommodation is time and a half for exams, it is likely your professor will work this out with you.

Q.  Do provide training in the use of assistive technology?

Yes, we do.

Q.  I have an invisible disability (learning, psychological, health), should I disclose it to a potential employer? I have a visible disability, (visually/hearing impaired, use of a wheelchair) when should I let a potential employer know about it, and should I directly address it in an interview?

This issue, often referred to as “The Disclosure Dilemma”, has no easy answer. Many factors need to be considered and you may wish to meet with an advisor to discuss the potential benefits and risks of disclosure.

Q.  What types of accommodations can help me to become "Otherwise Qualified" to  perform the essential job functions of the position that I seek?