Frequently Asked Questions

Q: I think I might have a learning disability. How can I get tested?
A: CSAS can make referrals to do testing to determine if you have a disability of some kind. While the testing is not done on campus, there are numerous resources in Tulsa.

Q: I would like to get accommodations. What do I need to do?
A: CSAS offers a number of accommodations to students with disabilities. Some of the most common include extended time on exams, taking exams in a distraction-reduced environment, priority enrollment for classes, interpreter support for the classroom, and class note-taking assistance. In order to qualify for accommodations, students provide documentation of their disability to CSAS. Depending on the type of disability, there is different information that will need to be provided by the student’s diagnosing professional. Students can schedule an appointment with CSAS staff to discuss the appropriate documentation needed and accommodations available. Once the documentation has been submitted, the student’s file is sent to the Eligibility Committee (a university committee that includes staff from CSAS, a trained staff member from the student’s academic college, and staff from the counseling center). The Eligibility Committee reviews the documentation and makes determinations about appropriate accommodations. The decision is then given to the student in writing and CSAS staff will meet with the student to get the accommodations set up.

Q: I am receiving accommodations. How are my instructors notified of the accommodations I receive?
A: A student’s record is considered private, protected by federal law (the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act). Because of this, CSAS does not make any notification to instructors regarding a student’s record. If a student is receiving accommodations, CSAS will prepare a letter for each of the student’s faculty members at the beginning of each semester. The student may choose to give these letters to the instructors in order to utilize accommodations. It is up to the student to provide this notification to the instructors, and a student does not have to utilize accommodations for every class unless he/she chooses to do so. The letters for instructors merely state the accommodations the student is entitled to receive, and does not contain any information regarding the reason for the accommodations (e.g., a disability).

Q: Should I be concerned about the impact my record with CSAS may have on future school and employment opportunities?
A: Because a student’s record is private and protected by federal law, information contained in the student’s record may not be released to anyone besides the student without permission given, in writing, by the student to release that information. If a student would like information shared with someone (e.g., a faculty member, a physician, a family member), the student may sign a release form at CSAS that would give permission to release information. Even University staff are not entitled to the information in a student’s record unless they have a legitimate educational need to know the information, as defined by federal law. Prospective employers would not have access to the student’s record without a signed release form. For more information about exceptions to the privacy of a student’s record, please contact CSAS or visit the FERPA website.

Q: I am struggling in a class. What help is available?
A: There are a number of resources available on campus. CSAS coordinates tutoring services for campus, and students may contact CSAS in order to find a tutor. CSAS also offers academic counseling to students. These are one-on-one meetings with trained staff members who work with students to improve study skills, time management, test-taking strategies, etc. Please visit the Academic Resources page for links to other available assistance. Students may also find individual tutors by courses by logging in to WebCT.

Q: It is time to enroll—how do I do that?
A: Enrollment is handled differently in each academic college. Students should first visit with their Academic Advisor to plan classes for the semester. Enrollment dates are announced for each semester and are determined based on seniority. Any student receiving accommodations is also entitled to priority enrollment (enrolling a day before anyone else can enroll). Students actually select and enroll in courses by logging in to the Web Advisor system.

Q: I am interested in attending the University of Tulsa, but would like to know more about services and accommodations available through CSAS before making my decision. How can I do this?
A: CSAS encourages students to check all their options before making a final decision about where to go to school. CSAS often meets with prospective students to go over assistance available and give students a chance to meet the staff who would be helping them, as well as to tour the office. To schedule a visit, please call us at 918-631-2315. We look forward to meeting you!

Q: I have had to miss a lot of class due to my disability or other concerns. What are my options?
A: Students in this situation should schedule an appointment with CSAS to discuss available options. CSAS will work with the student as well as faculty and staff members to try to help a student recover academically. Students should contact CSAS as soon as this becomes an issue in order to have the best chance of turning the semester around. In the event a student will not be able to return to class, CSAS staff will discuss options with the student and work to get the student on a path where they could eventually return.