At Abilene Christian University, we are committed to supporting student success and ensuring equal access to learning. Students may qualify for accommodations through the Alpha Scholars Online program if they have a documented disability or if they are reasonably regarded as having a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). A disability is legally defined as “a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities.”
Our goal is to partner with students to understand their needs and remove barriers to learning while maintaining the integrity of course and program requirements. The accommodation process is collaborative, confidential, and individualized to each student’s experience. Find out more about our process below!
Alpha Accommodation Request Process
Step 1: Complete the accommodation request form, selecting ‘Disability (Alpha Scholars)’.
If you have questions or concerns before starting the process, students may also email alphaonline@acu.edu to request an appointment or more information.
Step 2: Submit Supporting Documentation
The form above will require that you submit documentation. If you don’t have documentation, contact alphaonline@acu.edu before proceeding to discuss options.
Documentation should be from the treating provider and include an outline of diagnosis, symptoms, duration, intensity, regular impact to the student, and any suggested accommodations. A copy of a diagnostic report and/or a previous accommodation letter, IEP, or 504 plan are acceptable.
Step 3: Set up a meeting with Abbey Green by emailing alb13e@acu.edu or booking a meeting here.
From there, reasonable accommodations will be determined and implemented through an accommodation letter. You will receive further instructions during your meeting.
Application for Accommodations Related to Pregnancy
Pursuant to the Department of Education’s (DOE) guidance implementing Title IX, the university does not discriminate against any student on the basis of pregnancy or pregnancy-related conditions. While the university’s policies prohibit sexual activity outside of marriage, the university wants to support (and not punish) students who become pregnant regardless of marital status. Alpha Scholars and Title IX staff will walk alongside pregnant students and ensure they receive appropriate services.
In that regard, the university treats pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions in the same manner and under the same policies as any other temporary condition that does or could “substantially limit one or more major life activities” in accordance with Title IX.
To request reasonable academic or housing accommodations for needs related to a disability, a temporary disability or pregnancy, please contact Alpha Scholars using the forms or methods above. Additional on and off-campus resources include:
- Office of Women’s Health Pregnancy Resource Line
- Wildcat Care Telehealth Counseling and Medical Services
The university also prevents and addresses sex-based harassment, including harassment based on pregnancy. If students experience this sort of treatment, they should seek help immediately with ACU’s Anti-Harassment Office. The law prohibits anyone from retaliating against students for filing a complaint or raising concerns.