Are you preparing to start university or college this September? Now that January is here, many students are submitting their applications and planning for the next academic year. If you're a student with a disability, you’ll be glad to know that there are additional resources and funding available to support your academic success.
Understanding Disabilities in Post-Secondary Education
When we think of disabilities, many of us picture physical impairments, such as wheelchair use. However, post-secondary institutions define disabilities more broadly. They recognize a wide range of conditions, including physical, cognitive, learning disabilities, and mental health diagnoses. Conditions such as ADHD, insulin-dependent diabetes, and dyslexia also qualify.
To access these supports, students must provide documentation from a healthcare professional verifying their diagnosis. This documentation is essential—it can determine whether you receive the accommodations and support you need to thrive.
Student Accessibility Services (SAS)
Student Accessibility Services (SAS) are specialized programs at post-secondary institutions designed to ensure students with disabilities have equitable access to education. They provide academic accommodations, assistive technology, and support tailored to individual needs. SAS also helps students with temporary conditions, such as injuries, by offering temporary accommodations during recovery.
Common SAS supports include:
- Academic accommodations (e.g., extended test time, note-taking support)
- Accessible learning formats
- Adaptive equipment and assistive software
SAS can also assist with campus logistics. For example, if you live on campus, they can coordinate with residence services to provide accessible furniture, such as hospital beds and shower chairs. If your program is online but requires occasional on-campus attendance, SAS can help you plan for those in-person sessions.
SAS support is available whether your program is fully online or in-person. The accommodations they provide are similar to the Individualized Education Plan (IEP) you may have had in elementary or high school. Additionally, SAS can help you with transportation support if you need assistance getting to and from campus or class.
Why Registering with SAS is Essential
It’s important to register with SAS before your program starts to ensure accommodations are in place when classes begin. Once registered, you’ll be assigned a coordinator who will advocate for you and help you navigate the challenges of campus life. This department is your strongest ally in accessing the support you need to succeed. However, remember that you must provide updated documentation from a healthcare professional, as each institution has its own process and forms.
Student Financial Assistance for Students with Disabilities
In addition to academic accommodations, students with disabilities can access financial aid programs through their province’s student aid system. When applying for financial assistance, you can register as a student with disabilities to receive additional support.
A disability, according to provincial definitions, includes physical, mental, intellectual, cognitive, learning, communication, or sensory impairments. Temporary conditions lasting around 12 months also qualify.
Benefits of Registering for Financial Aid as a Student with Disabilities
1. Full-Time Status with a Reduced Course Load: Students with disabilities only need to take 40% of a full course load to be considered full-time students. This is crucial because full-time students often receive more funding than part-time students.
2. Access to Disability-Specific Grants and Bursaries: Both federal and provincial financial aid programs offer grants and bursaries specifically for students with disabilities. These funds can help cover tuition, assistive devices, and living expenses. Some grants are tailored to specific conditions, such as those for students who are hearing impaired, while others are available to all students with disabilities.
Federal grants are typically administered through provincial student aid programs, so you’ll still apply through your province's financial aid system. As with SAS, you’ll need to provide documentation from a healthcare professional confirming your diagnosis.
Proving Your Eligibility
Your disability doesn’t have to be permanent to qualify for support. You can apply under the “persistent and prolonged” category if your condition is expected to last 12 months or more. However, you’ll need a healthcare professional to complete the necessary forms and confirm that your condition meets your province’s guidelines.