What is COA?

The Certificate of Accommodation (COA) is the official document that lists the accommodations you’ve been approved for. It does not include your diagnosis, treatment history, or personal information.

Your COA:

Is prepared by your AERC coordinator after your intake
Is sent via secure email or portal system to your JSU instructors only
Outlines the specific accommodations you are entitled to use
Is valid for the current academic semester only
Must be renewed each semester—even if your classes haven’t changed

Privacy Notice: Instructors are not given medical documentation. The COA protects your confidentiality while ensuring equitable treatment.

How Instructors Receive and Use the COA

COAs are distributed after your intake is complete and your documentation is verified
Instructors receive a digital copy directly from the AERC (not from the student)
Instructors are expected to review and implement the accommodations in a timely manner, typically within 7 business days
Professors are allowed to consult with AERC if they have questions or concerns about feasibility

If you add or drop a class, notify the AERC immediately so we can reissue your COA to the correct instructors

What You Must Do After Approval

You are expected to follow up with each instructor to:

Confirm they received your COA
Discuss how your accommodations will be implemented (e.g., where you will test, how notes will be provided, deadlines)
Clarify any course-specific logistics (e.g., labs, group work, participation)

Recommended Script: "Hi Professor, I wanted to confirm that you received my Certificate of Accommodation from the AERC. I'd like to schedule a brief conversation or email exchange about how my accommodations will be implemented in your class."