Disability Support Services

At Whitman College, we are committed to providing an inclusive and accessible learning environment for all students. Our Disability Support Services office supports students with temporary, chronic or permanent disabilities including physical, health, psychological and learning disabilities. We determine appropriate accommodations and services that remove barriers in order to provide equal access in students’ academics and in college life.

Who Is Eligible for Accommodations?

Students who have documented disabilities that significantly impact major life activities (e.g., learning, walking, hearing) may be eligible for accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA, 1990, as amended in 2008) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

Quick Steps To Apply

1. Self-report via the online application. 
2. Documentation: This is where you would upload any letters or documentation you might have from medical and mental health professionals. 
   • Guidelines
   • Health Provider Form 
   • Provider Documentation Form for Housing Accommodation
3. Interactive Process: This is an intake meeting where we discuss your disability/condition and requests, review the documentation, learn about these connections, and come to an agreement about accommodations. Please regularly check your Whitman email for a meeting “invitation” so we are able to meet in a timely manner. 
4. When accommodations are agreed upon, you will request accommodation letters to be emailed to faculty or departments who need to know about this accommodation through a semester renewal. You will make this request each semester for the classes you select.

Important Accommodation Dates and Deadlines

Proctored Testing in the Testing Center:

• Standard Testing Sign-Up: At least 72 hours (3 days) prior to the test.
• Finals two weeks prior to the start of final exams:
  • Spring 2025: April 30
  • Fall 2025: Nov. 30
  • Spring 2026: April 29

Emotional Support Animals:

• Fall Semester: July 15
• Spring Semester: Nov. 15

Accommodation Letter Request to Faculty Opens (This needs to be completed each semester):

• Fall 2025: Aug. 26
• Spring 2026: Jan. 13