Policy Foundations

Elon University’s policies and procedures regarding students with disabilities are based on applicable laws that protect qualified individuals with disabilities. A brief summary of two key federal laws is below.

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, prohibits discrimination because of a disability in any program receiving federal funding: “No otherwise qualified individual with a disability in the United States . . . shall, solely by reason of his or her disability, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity receiving federal financial assistance . . . .”

The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act of 2008 (ADAAA) apply to certain public and private entities and also prohibit discrimination on the basis of a disability. These statutes require covered entities to make reasonable accommodations for qualified students with disabilities and to afford them an equal opportunity to participate in and enjoy the benefits of University programs, services, and activities.

Elon University Policy Statement

Elon University is committed to the principle of equal opportunity. Its policies and procedures are designed to ensure that students with disabilities will not, on the basis of those disabilities, be discriminated against or denied an equal opportunity to participate in and enjoy the benefits of University programs, services, and activities. This document outlines certain rights and responsibilities and creates a mechanism for dispute resolution if an issue arises in connection with a student’s disability.

Reasonable Accommodations

Qualified students with disabilities are eligible for reasonable accommodations or modifications to permit them equal and equitable access to University programs, services and activities.  The University is not required to provide accommodations in all circumstances. For example, the University is not obligated to provide an accommodation when:

  1. the student is not qualified;
  2. the accommodation would result in a fundamental alteration of the course or program;
  3. the institution is being asked to provide a service of a personal nature (e.g., attendants, individually prescribed devices, etc.); or
  4.  the accommodation would impose an undue burden on the University.

Accommodations must be requested in a reasonably timely manner. Please note accommodations are not retroactive.  The University will also provide accommodations in a timely manner.  Some accommodations, however, may require more lead time than others (for example, hiring a sign language interpreter or providing certain texts in alternative formats).

Procedures for Requesting Accommodations

 

Grievance Process and Information

Procedures for Dispute/Grievance Resolution