Eligibility Information

UT Tyler Student Accessibility and Resources

Under the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (2008), a person with a disability is defined as someone who has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits functionality in one or more major life activities, a record of such impairment, or is regarded as having such an impairment. ADAAA (2008) broadened the definition of disability so that impairments that are in remission or episodic in nature but would substantially limit a major life activity when “active” are now covered.

Major Life Activities

This may include, but is not limited to, performing manual tasks, caring for oneself, seeing, hearing, speaking, walking, breathing, learning, concentrating, reading, thinking, communicating, and the ability to work. 
The impairment must significantly restrict the individual’s ability to engage or perform in a major life activity compared to the average person. 

Impact on Academic Performance

The disability must have a demonstrable impact of the student’s ability to participate in or complete their academic program without reasonable accommodations or adjustments.  

Accommodations

Must be relatable to the diagnosed disability and the functional limitations that impact the student in an educational setting. 

Otherwise Qualified

This means a student with a disability must meet the same academic and technical standards required of all other students for admission or participation in a program or activity. 

Students in Higher Education 

The student is responsible for identifying their needs and requesting accommodations from the disability service office. At UT Tyler this is the Student Accessibility and Resources (SAR) office. Registration with and requests for accommodations should be made in a timely manner and accommodations are generally not retroactive.