Medical & Psychological Documentation for Academic Accommodations

The UP Disability & Reasonable Accommodation Panel requires appropriate medical or psychological documentation when reviewing requests for academic accommodations, particularly for tests and examinations. While health professionals may recommend accommodations, the Panel—familiar with UP’s educational environment—determines whether these recommendations are appropriate. Recommendations are considered but not automatically granted, and additional documentation may be requested if necessary.

Required Documentation

To support an application, documentation must:

• Confirm a current disability diagnosis.
• Include the date of diagnosis and explain how it was reached.
• Provide quantitative and qualitative evidence supporting the diagnosis.
• Be signed and stamped by the diagnosing professional, including their name, title, credentials, and affiliation.
• Explain how the disability affects major life activities and academic performance.
• Be dated within the last two years (in most cases).

Psychiatric & Learning Disability Considerations

• Psychological conditions effectively managed with medication or therapy do not automatically qualify for extra writing time. If treatment is unsuccessful, a psychiatrist must justify why accommodations are necessary and outline alternative treatment plans.
• For psychiatric conditions requiring extra writing time, a recent psychiatric report must explain:
  • Why the condition impacts test-taking ability.
  • The link between the condition and academic performance.
  • The recommended concession period.
• Previous academic concessions do not automatically extend to university level.
• Specific Learning Disorders, ADHD, or Psychiatric Disorders require a specialized assessment battery for concession approval.

For more information or to request a referral letter, please contact [email protected].