Disability Support Services At SAU Tech

Disability Support Services (DSS), a division of the Department of Enrollment Services, is the designated office at Southern Arkansas University Tech responsible for coordinating services and accommodations for students with disabilities. Our goal is to ensure that all students have equal access to the full SAU Tech experience—both in and out of the classroom.

Mission Statement

The mission of Disability Support Services is to coordinate accommodations for students with documented disabilities, ensuring accessibility and usability of all academic programs, services, and campus activities. DSS also acts as an advocate and resource for students with disabilities, supporting full participation in every aspect of college life.

Non Discrimination Policy

SAU Tech complies fully with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. These federal laws protect individuals with disabilities against discrimination and guarantee access to:

  • Higher education
  • Employment
  • Transportation
  • Public services
  • Telecommunications


SAU Tech’s policy:
 No qualified student with a disability shall be excluded from participation in, or be denied the benefits of, any program or activity at the college.

Confidentiality & Student Rights

DSS respects the privacy of all students. Any information related to a student's disability—including documentation, diagnosis, or history—is treated with strict confidentiality and shared only on a need-to-know basis.

  • Information is only released with written student consent
  • Faculty/staff are informed of accommodations, not diagnosis
  • All records are stored securely and are accessible only to authorized DSS staff

How To Receive Accommodations

To receive accommodations, students must submit documentation of their disability. Documentation must:

  • Come from a qualified professional (e.g., psychologist, medical doctor, psychiatrist)
  • Be on official letterhead and signed
  • Be current (generally within the last three years)
  • Clearly state the diagnosis and recommended accommodations

Examples of valid documentation:

  • Psychological or cognitive evaluations
  • Medical records
  • Disability determinations from agencies
DSS reviews each student’s documentation on an individual basis to determine appropriate accommodations.

Online Students

Online-only students can complete the DSS application process remotely via email or phone. Faculty Notification Letters are emailed directly to instructors. It is the student’s responsibility to:

  • Contact DSS to indicate online status
  • Confirm accommodation arrangements with instructors
  • Follow up to ensure receipt of notification letters

Students Without Documentation

If you suspect you may have a disability but have never been formally diagnosed, SAU Tech does not conduct testing. However, DSS will provide a referral list of local professionals who offer diagnostic evaluations.

  • Evaluations typically cost between $450 and $1,200
  • Insurance may cover some costs—check with your provider
  • Some local agencies may assist with funding
  • Contact DSS for more information and resources.

Frequently Asked Questions – Disability Support Services

  • Are there any special application procedures for students with disabilities?

    No. Students with disabilities must apply through SAU Tech’s regular admissions process. There are no special procedures or considerations in the application process. However, students may apply directly to testing organizations (like ACT or College Board) for accommodations on standardized exams.

  • Do I need to do anything to get disability services accommodations again next semester?

    Yes. You must meet with Disability Support Services (DSS) each semester to renew and coordinate your accommodations. Accommodations are not automatically continued.

  • How do disability services in college differ from those in high school?

    In college, services are provided under the ADA and Section 504—not IDEA. Students are responsible for seeking out services and self-advocating. Colleges are not required to identify students with disabilities or provide individualized education plans (IEPs).

  • I suspect I have a learning disability. Can DSS conduct the assessment to provide a diagnosis?

    No. SAU Tech does not provide diagnostic testing. Students must obtain documentation from a qualified professional. DSS can refer students to local evaluators.

  • I’m a Department of Rehabilitative Services (RS) client. What do I need to know?

    Stay in contact with your hometown RS counselor. For additional guidance, contact the local Rehabilitation Office at 870-862-5451.



  • I’m a Division for the Blind Services client. How does that work with DSS?

    Have your counselor contact Disability Services at SAU Tech to help coordinate accommodations. For additional support, contact the local Rehabilitation Office at 870-862-6631.

  • Will DSS contact me about services like my high school counselor did?

    No. It is your responsibility to reach out to DSS to request accommodations in college.



  • Should I provide information about my disability in my college application?

    It is your choice. You are not required to disclose a disability on your application, but some students choose to do so in a personal statement. If you would like to request accommodations, contact DSS separately.

  • What are the procedures for implementing accommodations?

    Contact DSS after admission. You will submit documentation and meet with staff to discuss your needs. Eligibility is based on documentation and a review of accommodation history (if available). DSS will then help you set up your accommodations.



  • What do I do if I’m taking summer classes and need accommodations?

    Notify DSS as soon as you're enrolled. If your summer course is at another institution, that school’s DSS office will handle accommodations.

  • What documentation is required for accommodations?

    Documentation must:

    • Be from a qualified professional
    • Be dated within the last three years
    • Include a diagnosis and the resulting limitations Contact DSS for guidance if you're unsure.

  • What if I can’t take a test at the regular time because of my accommodations?

    Speak with your professor about alternative test times. Then schedule the test through SAU Tech’s Testing Center.

  • Can I use accommodations in just some of my classes?

    Yes. You can choose which classes you need accommodations for.

  • What role do parents play in this process?

    Students aged 18 or older are legally responsible for their accommodations. Parents may be a support system, but the student must handle communication and decision-making.

  • Who helps coordinate disability services?

    A designated counselor in Student Services serves as the Disability Support Counselor. They assist with accommodations and ensure students receive appropriate support.



  • Who is eligible for disability services?

    Any student with a documented physical or mental impairment that significantly limits a major life activity such as learning, seeing, hearing, or mobility.

  • Will DSS help me manage my medications?

    No. You are responsible for your own healthcare and medication. Stay in contact with your healthcare provider, especially during your transition to college.

Contact Disability Support Services

DSS Office – Administration Building, 2nd Floor
Mailing Address: SAU Tech, P.O. Box 3499, Camden, AR 71711