Click on The DSS Logo to return to the homepage

What kind of documentation do I need to have for alternative testing?
Students who request alternative testing must have verifying documentation that shows a clear need for extended time testing and any other testing accommodation like a scribe or reader. See our documentation guidelines (link to documentation guidelines page)

Return to FAQ menu or New to DSS Menu

Can I have tutoring services?
Disability Support Services does not provide tutoring services. Tutoring is not a required accommodation under the law. Bellevue Community College does have tutoring services available at the following locations:

See postings for tutors for hire in the Student Union Building

Return to FAQ menu or New to DSS Menu


Will someone proof my papers?
Disability Support Services staff does not provide editing services, but the BCC Writing Lab does. The Writing Lab is located in D222, or call 425-564-2493.

Return to FAQ menu or New to DSS Menu

 

Do I have to take math even if I won't be using it in my job? Intermediate Algebra proficiency and a college level math class, or logic are required for an Associates in Arts and Science Degree. Some vocational programs do not require math. It is best to meet with an advisor to discuss your options and make an academic plan. Link to advising page.

Return to FAQ menu or New to DSS Menu

Are online classes easier than traditional classes? Online classes are reading intensive and require self-monitoring and motivation. Some students find it difficult to take on-line classes because there are not as many opportunities to get clarification from instructors. Others like taking classes on-line because they have mobility issues that make it easier for them to work from home.

Return to FAQ menu or New to DSS Menu

 

Will DSS pay for my classes?
The DSS office does not provide funding for classes. We do refer students to campus and community programs that have funding resources and we post scholarship opportunities in our office. The Financial Aid office (link to Financial Aid), the Women's Center and Student Access Center (link to Women's Center and Student Access Center), and Multicultural Student Services (link to Multicultural Services) have funding resources for qualifying students.

Return to FAQ menu or New to DSS Menu

What must I do to have accommodations in my classes?
New students begin by filling out the intake form in person at DSS located on campus in building room 132. or on line at bcc.ctc.edu/dss. Students must provide DSS with written verification of disability from an appropriate clinician in the disability field. The documentation must thoroughly explain the diagnosis of the student's disability or disabilities.

Return to FAQ menu or New to DSS Menu

What kind of documentation do I need to provide?
Documentation guidelines are available through DSS. Documentation must be provided by the physician, psychologist, or specialist who diagnoses and treats the disability. limitations presented by the disability for the student need to be thoroughly explained. Medical records which include descriptions and diagnostics, thorough letters of information by appropriate clinicians, neuro-psych educational evaluations are examples of documentation.

Return to FAQ menu or New to DSS Menu

How do I get my documentation?
Students can request documentation directly from their clinicians, obtain educational testing/diagnostics done by school psychologists from their school districts, or reference what may be in a file at home if parents had testing or other diagnostics done. Testing/diagnostics must be “recent“ which generally is three years. Educational testing can be more than three years if the testing was done as an “adult“ learner within high school age, testing over 5 years is not generally accepted.

Return to FAQ menu or New to DSS Menu

Can you help me ask for documentation from my Doctor?
Students who have difficulty in obtaining documentation may sign a release of information form at the DSS reception desk. DSS will then request the documentation to assist the student in this process. This is done only after the student has tried unsuccessfully to obtain their doctor's diagnosis information.

Return to FAQ menu or New to DSS Menu

How do I get documentation if I do not have any?
If the disability is medical documentation can be requested from the student IEP's doctor or specialist. If the student has learning disabilities he/she must obtain diagnostics from testing done by educational psychologists/neuro psychiatrists, or learning disability specialists. If the student has insurance this may be paid for by his/her plan. If the student has no insurance referrals to appropriate vocational rehabilitation programs may be possible.

Return to FAQ menu or New to DSS Menu

Can I get extended time if I have test anxiety?
Test anxiety is not classified as a disability. Disabilities that include anxiety are depression, PTS (post Traumatic stress disorder), general anxiety disorder. If test anxiety is part of a disability such as these the student should go through the DSS application (intake) process.

Return to FAQ menu or New to DSS Menu

Can DSS Help me pay for books, tuition,supplies?
No, DSS does not fund students in their educational expenses. We do provide course accommodations to those who are qualified for them.

Return to FAQ menu or New to DSS Menu

I had an IEP in highschool. Can I have extended time for class work?
IEP's are individual educational plans for special education programs in the K-12 environment. There is no special education program in colleges/universities. Reduced course content, extensions on homework/class projects are not possible. If there are legitimate emergencies due to accidents, illness, surgery advocacy can be provided on a case by case basis with the instructor. The student's self advocacy would also be required in this situation.

Return to FAQ menu or New to DSS Menu

Can I obtain a disability parking sticker from the security office?
The WA state handicapped placard is what is necessary to park in the disability parking slots on campus. Contact your physician to request one if you feel you qualify under the law.

Return to FAQ menu or New to DSS Menu

Can I take the assessment with accommodations?
Yes, if documentation is provided indicating the need for specific accommodations

Can you help me get into a class that is full?
Students who have disabilities must gain access to classes in the manner all other students do. In other words, a student who has a disability does not have priority status for entrance if the class is full.

Return to FAQ menu or New to DSS Menu

I know I am late to register. I need Braile, Interpreters, adapative equipment to be set up for classes next week. Is this possible?

These accommodations take weeks to set up. The student may be too late with his/her request for these auxiliary aids. Our procedures indicate 4 weeks at a minimum to have these accommodations in place the beginning of the quarter. The college will make a good faith effort to provide on short notice, however, the reality is that given such short timelines it is doubtful this could happen.

Return to FAQ menu or New to DSS Menu
Go back to the top of this page

Valid XHTML 1.0 Transitional