Learning Objectives

By the end of this module, students and families will:

Understand the full process for applying for accommodations through the AERC
Know what types of documentation are acceptable and what must be included
Learn what to expect during the intake meeting
Understand the timeline for approval and communication with instructors
Recognize the importance of early and complete submission

Introduction

College is different from high school in one very important way: support is not automatic. At Jackson State University, scholars must initiate the request for accommodations, provide appropriate documentation, and participate in an intake meeting with a coordinator.

This self-driven process is part of what makes the transition to college empowering. It puts students in the driver’s seat—building ownership, independence, and self-advocacy. We’re here to walk beside you every step of the way.

Step-by-Step: How to Request Accommodations

Step 1: Complete the AERC Intake Form

All scholars must begin by filling out the official AERC Intake Form. This form captures:

Basic student information
Disability-related diagnoses or concerns
Barriers or challenges you’ve experienced in the academic or residential setting
Types of accommodations you are requesting (if known)

Access the form online through the secure AERC portal, available on the AERC website.

Pro Tip: Use your JSU email to ensure timely processing and tracking.

Step 2: Submit Documentation of Your Disability

Documentation must clearly establish:

That the student has a disability as defined by the ADA
The current impact of the disability on academic or campus life
A clear rationale for the requested accommodations

Acceptable documentation includes:

Recent psychoeducational evaluation (e.g., testing for learning disabilities or ADHD)
IEP or 504 Plan with accompanying evaluation reports (used as historical documentation only)
Medical diagnosis or treatment summary from a licensed provider
Psychological/psychiatric evaluations from a clinical mental health provider

Important criteria:

Documentation must be typed on official letterhead
Include the name, credentials, and signature of the provider
Must be dated within the last 12 months (some exceptions apply)
Must link the disability to the functional limitations and describe how they affect learning or daily life

Incomplete documentation may delay the process. If you’re unsure, submit what you have and we’ll guide you.

Step 3: Schedule and Attend Your Intake Meeting

Once your form and documentation are submitted and reviewed, AERC will contact you to schedule a confidential intake meeting with one of our professional disability services coordinators.

During this 30–45 minute meeting, we will:

Review your documentation
Talk through your academic and campus experiences
Identify barriers you’ve faced and any past accommodations that worked (or didn’t)
Discuss JSU’s available supports and set expectations
Begin drafting your Certificate of Accommodation (COA), if appropriate

Parents and Supporters: While we welcome your involvement, only the student may speak during the official intake. Federal privacy laws (FERPA) protect student records. Students are encouraged to prepare beforehand and may consult with families outside the meeting.

Step 4: Receive Your Certificate of Accommodation (COA)

If approved, your accommodations will be documented on an official COA, which lists only the approved accommodations—not your diagnosis or medical details.

COAs are:

Sent directly to your current semester instructors via the secure system
Valid only for the current semester
Confidential—faculty are only told what support you are entitled to, not why

It is your responsibility to follow up with each instructor to discuss how your accommodations will be implemented in their course.

Step 5: Maintain Your Status with AERC

Accommodations must be renewed each semester by submitting a Renewal Request Form. This allows us to confirm your enrollment, update your professors, and adjust any changes to your schedule or needs.

Failing to renew may result in a lapse of services or miscommunication with instructors.

Suggested Timeline

Intake Form submission: 4–6 weeks before the semester begins
Documentation review: Within 5–10 business days
Intake appointment: 2–3 weeks before classes start
COA issued: Typically within 3–5 days after intake
Instructor follow-up: Within the first week of classes

Common Delays to Avoid

Submitting outdated documentation
Waiting until midterms or finals to apply
Expecting immediate implementation without a completed intake
Failing to check JSU email for scheduling or follow-up

Module 3 Takeaway Checklist

✅ Intake form submitted through AERC portal
✅ Documentation uploaded (current, complete, signed)
✅ Intake meeting attended
✅ COA received and reviewed
✅ Professors contacted to discuss accommodation needs
✅ Follow-up scheduled or renewal process understood