Columbia University Health Services

In some cases, students with disabilities are entitled to accommodations related to administration of examinations. These testing accommodations modify, in specific ways, the way an exam is administered to students. Typical testing accommodations include extended time to complete the exam, alternate format, e.g. large print, smaller proctored environment to take the exam, and use of computer to type the exam. The intent of testing accommodations is not to alter the performance requirements or lessen course standards; rather, their purpose is to ensure equal access to the testing setting for students with relevant disabilities needing modification related to the administration of exams.

Such testing accommodations can either be provided directly by course instructors or by ODS. Many instructors have been able to and prefer to coordinate these accommodations with assistance from their teaching assistants. If faculty members choose to provide accommodations, they must be prepared to:

• Provide an appropriate testing environment, including a dedicated testing space that is quiet, offers minimal distractions, and the provides ability to take and complete the exam without interruption;
• Ensure that students with disabilities have the same exam opportunities and resources as all other students, e.g. the opportunity to ask clarifying questions related to the exam.

Alternatively, ODS may administer your exams. The staff at ODS is equipped to administer exams in an appropriate and secure manner. ODS is fully committed to preserving the University’s academic integrity. To arrange testing accommodations through ODS, students have been instructed to notify the Office at least one (1) week prior to the exam date. This lead time is necessary so that ODS can secure space and proctors to administer the exam. ODS also requires that the ‘Testing Accommodation Form’ be completed by both the professor and student and submitted to ODS. Please be sure to complete the form in its entirety so that the exam can be administered to your specifications. A copy of this form is enclosed for your reference.

All exams must be delivered to ODS at least one day prior. Exams can be sent via email to disability@columbia.edu, by fax at 212.854.3448, or dropped at the ODS office (802 Lerner). If, during the exam, you provide the class additional instructions or make modifications to the exam, please contact ODS by calling 212.854.2388 so that we can alert the student to such changes.

Upon request from an eligible student, ODS will contact you to make an announcement in your class to assist ODS in recruiting a classmate to provide a copy of his/her notes. Note-taking services are coordinated in ways that preserve the anonymity of those receiving this service. ODS will review potential classmates’ notes for quality, content, neatness, and organization. Note-takers are required to provide a copy of their notes each week. Note-taking services are not intended to be a substitute for class attendance.