Students who have been approved for testing (including quiz) accommodations are emailed a Letter of Accommodation that serves as verification for their professors. It is the student’s responsibility to show the faculty member the letter and begin the discussion of how testing accommodations will be arranged.
It is acceptable for faculty to make testing arrangements without involving Disability Services, as long as appropriate accommodations are made.
If the faculty member would prefer that the student take a quiz/test in the Disability Services Office, it is the student’s responsibility to make necessary arrangements with Disability Services in a timely manner.
It is the Coordinator’s responsibility to maintain the security of the quiz/test if it is taken at Disability Services. Communication between the faculty member and Disability Services regarding the administration of the quiz/test is very important.
Testing Process
Step 1: Get Approved For Testing Accommodations
Students must complete an Accommodation Request each semester before they can receive their accommodations.
Accommodation requests can be submitted through the Disability Services Portal.
Step 2: Complete a Testing Accommodation Request
Test requests need to be submitted at least 5 business days prior to the day of the test. Testing accommodation requests must be submitted for each quiz/test the student chooses to take at Disability Services. If the requested test date/time is different from the date/time the test is being taken in class, Disability Services must receive written approval from the professor before the new date/time can be approved. Test requests can be made through the Disability Services Portal.
Step 3: Disability Services Emails the Class Instructor
Disability Services emails the student's professor/instructor to confirm the date/time of the test, accommodations, test format (paper/pencil or EduCat), delivery/return request, and acceptable outside resources. The student is copied on this email as confirmation that the request has been processed.
Step 4: Test Preparation
Disability Services schedules a room and proctor (if applicable). Paper tests are delivered or emailed by professors. The Coordinator of Disability Services will complete EduCat overrides as necessary. The day before the test, Disability Services sends the student a reminder/confirmation email.
Step 5: Test Day
The student arrives at the Disability Services Office to take their test at least 10 minutes early and checks in at the front desk. Disability Services coordinates with the professor regarding test delivery options (pick up, campus mail, fax, or scan/email).
If a professor decides to accommodate testing accommodations themselves (extended time and/or alternate test site), Disability Services can provide a test proctor to help administer the test if needed. Proctors can assist with reading/scribing and maintaining test integrity.
Professor talking points regarding testing accommodations
Example: My name is ____________________. I have a diagnosed disability. Here is my accommodation letter, which verifies my disability and shows that I have been approved for testing accommodations.
1. Ask if the professor plans to arrange an alternate testing site or if you should take the test at Disability Services.
2. Make sure the professor knows how much time you should have (time-and-a-half or double time), ESPECIALLY if the test is in EduCat.
3. Let the professor know if you plan to utilize a test reader or a test scribe; this may affect where the professor wants you to take the test.
4. Discuss any scheduling issues with the professor (for example, if you have to begin an exam a half hour early so that your extended time does not overlap with another class, or if the professor lectures before or after the test).
5. Make sure the professor knows that if there are any questions regarding how testing accommodations should be arranged, they should contact the Disability Services Office.
**Make test accommodation requests through the NMU Disability Services Portal at least 5 business days (weekends are not included) prior to the test date. Disability Services reserves the right to deny any requests that are submitted within 48 business hours of the test date.**