Student F.A.Q.

For detailed information about registering with the DRC, see our How to Request Accommodations webpage.

If you are transferring to PSU from another college or university, our Transfer Students with Disabilities page has helpful information and resources.

When should I contact the DRC?

Accommodations from previous schools will not automatically transfer to PSU so it's never too early! We advise new students to contact the DRC prior to their first term on campus. Keep in mind that accommodations are not retroactive, so it is best to have your accommodations in place before you need to use them.

How do I register with the DRC?

The process is simple: Fill out our online Application for Accommodations (If you do not have a PSU Odin account, contact DRC Front Desk by phone at 503-725-4150, or email drc@pdx.edu).

Once you fill out the application you will receive an email with instructions for how to schedule your initial appointment.

I'm not sure I have a disability. What should I do?

The vast majority of students registered with the DRC have disabilities such as attention-deficit disorder, learning disabilities, mental health diagnoses, chronic medical conditions, brain injuries, Autism, and other less apparent disabilities. If you feel you may have a disability, but are not sure, we encourage you to talk to us anyway! With your help, we will be able to determine if you are eligible for accommodations or direct you to resources for assessment.

Will my disability information be kept confidential?

The Disability Resource Center takes our responsibility to protect your confidential information seriously. Visit our Confidentiality webpage to better understand what is and is not considered confidential information, who has access to DRC records, and our disclosure and mandatory reporting obligations.

Do I need a diagnosis to get accommodations through the DRC?

Typically you need to have been given a diagnosis to receive accommodations. An exception may be made for students who are actively working with a provider and a diagnosis has been difficult to pin down. If you do not yet have a diagnosis, the DRC can still provide referrals to resources.

Do I need to have updated or current documentation?

Not necessarily. We recommend that you schedule your initial appointment and meet with an Access Counselor & Consultant (AC&C) to discuss accommodations. The AC&C will let you know if additional information is needed.

How do I get my documentation or DS records from my previous school?

Call your current or previous school's Disability Services office to request that they send this information directly to you.

Alternatively, you may contact our office to request a release of information form which you will fill out and return to our office. We will send the completed form to your previous school to request the information.

How do my instructors know I have accommodation? Is this automatic?

Instructors are not automatically notified of your accommodations. In order to use your accommodations, you need to log in to DRC Online and enter your Service Request before the beginning of each term. The DRC Online system will generate and send the Faculty Notification Email during business hours. You can watch our tutorial video about how to submit the Service Request for step-by-step instructions.

Does PSU offer campus living accommodations (i.e., residence hall, meal plan, etc.)?

Yes! Portland State University offers a variety of campus living accommodations to students who qualify, including but not limited to: accessible residence hall rooms, access to kitchens or kitchenettes, emotional support animals, and more. If you feel you may need accommodations in University Housing or Campus Dining or if you're curious about what accommodations we provide, contact the DRC.

Are accommodations available to me while I’m studying abroad?

Accommodations may be available for you while you’re studying in another country. However, the accommodations may be different from those you receive while at PSU campus. To find out what accommodations are available, please contact your DRC AC&C to get started, or see more information on the Students with Disabilities Study Abroad webpage.

English is not my first language. Can I get disability accommodations for this?

Being an English language learner is not, in and of itself, considered a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The DRC supports disabled students with accommodations. If a student is an English language learner AND disabled, we encourage students to register with us. If a student is not disabled and seeking accommodations solely related to being an English Language learner we suggest working with your professor or seeking support from the Intensive English Language Program.

If you have questions about the information on this page, please contact the Disability Resource Center.

Email: drc@pdx.edu
Phone: 503-725-4150

Check our home page for our hours and contact information.