Self-Identification

The Office of Disability Services recognizes that the decision to self-identify any disability is a personal one, and we respect a student's decision not to do so. We do, however, encourage all students with visible or hidden disabilities, such as learning disabilities or chronic medical conditions, to self-identify and to register with ODS. This should be done as early as possible: during the admissions process, upon arrival at College, or immediately following diagnosis or injury. Information provided to the Student Health Service is confidential and is not forwarded to ODS.

All students with either permanent or temporary disabilities are required to have appropriate disability related documentation on file in ODS. Voluntary registration with Disability Services can serve as a type of insurance policy to ensure that assistance is readily available should it be desired. We will discuss disability-related needs regarding academic accommodations including nonstandard test-taking arrangements as well as other aspects of a student's life at Barnard or in the community.