Frequently Asked Questions

How can the Accessibility Services Office assist me?

Each student is unique, so the answer to this question is different for each person. You will be able to consult with an Accessibility Services Coordinator and discuss and agree on accommodations for which you may be qualified.

Can I visit Accessibility Services even if I don't have documentation with me?

Yes. The Accessibility Services Office encourages you to contact the office whether or not you have documentation of a disability on hand. We would be happy to answer any questions you may have about our services.

How can I find out if I qualify for support from the Accessibility Services Office?

Our Accessibility Coordinators will work you by phone call, email and Zoom.  You will be able to have a conversation with an Accessibility Coordinator about your goals, if you had previous services and possible accommodations that your documentation supports.

How will my instructors know what accommodations I need?

Each semester you are a student at NICC, you will need to reach out to the Accessibility Services Coordinator or Director to receive updated accommodation letters. Our staff will forward the letter to the student and the student will then forward the letter via email to each of their instructors. This is your responsibility. This accommodation letter will list your accommodations along with important links for both you and your instructors such as scheduling exams with our testing centers among others.

When should I activate my accommodations and get them to my instructors?

We recommend you activate your accommodations 1-2 weeks before classes begin. There are certain accommodations that take our team more time to implement, so it's always best if students can let us know prior to the beginning of their classes.  There is no deadline to apply for accommodations, disabilities can happen at any time, but you should know that activating your accommodations can take some time and accommodations are not retroactive.  An example of this would be a student who is in their 4th week of classes when they get their documentation for a disability and apply for accommodations. The accommodations start for their classes the day the instructors get them. The student does not get to go back and re-take prior exams or get to complete assignments they didn't get done prior to these accommodations being activated. They are not retroactive.

If I register with Accessibility Services, will my information be kept confidential?

Yes, the fact that you are registered with Accessibility Services is a private matter and does not appear on any official college records. However, the student never has to discuss their accommodations with their instructors or anyone else on campus if they choose not to.  The instructors will have your accommodations, but our Accessibility Services team will never discuss anything about your diagnosis(es) with them or anyone on our campuses unless you give us written consent to do so. If you are comfortable and want to discuss your disability with instructors , this is completely up to you.

Can you help online students with disabilities?

Yes. If you have a disability and plan to take NICC courses online, we encourage you to contact the Accessibility Services Office. 

I have a disability but don't need accommodations. Am I required to register with Accessibility Services?

It is entirely your choice whether to register with the Accessibility Services Office. However, even if you don't need accommodations, there can be an advantage to doing so. Students with disabilities are protected from discrimination by federal laws, and they often sign up just in case they have a need for services or support in a future semester.

Is there financial aid for students with disabilities?

Financial aid programs such as Pell grants and student loans are available to students with disabilities just as they are to other students. There are some scholarships available to students with certain diagnoses at affordablecolleges.com.

I need more time on tests. How can I arrange for that?

If extended test time—usually time and a half--is one of your approved accommodations, you will  give the instructors your accommodations form. Once you have done this, you are cleared to take tests with extra time that semester.  You will need to arrange for each test by making a reservation at the Testing Center located at your designated campus at least 72 hours (three business days) in advance. Testing Center staff will request the test from your instructor and have it ready for you at the designated time.

Where can I take tests with extra time or in a distraction-reduced setting?

The NICC Testing Center on your campus has rooms set aside where students with accommodations can take tests with reduced distractions. You will need to make a reservation for each test by submitting a student Etrieve form three business days in advance. 

How can I get books in alternate formats such as digital, audio, or Braille?

Eligible students can request alternate format books through the Accessibility Services Office. The process can be time-consuming, so you're advised to request the books at least six weeks before you need them.  In most cases, you will need a receipt showing that you purchased the book.

Are licensing exams for trade purposes or professional purposes (such as bar exams or medical licensing exams, including clinical assessments) required to provide students with disabilities accommodations?

According to the ADA exams administered by any private, state, or local government entity related to applications, licensing, certification, or credentialing for secondary or post-secondary education, professional, or trade purposes are covered by the ADA and testing accommodations, pursuant to the ADA, must be provided. NICC cannot guarantee and does not make arrangements for students to receive accommodations for their professional licensing. Each entity has their own accommodations requirements and the applicant must follow their procedures to access accommodations.  Our team can assist you with these applications if necessary.

Accessibility Services Offices

It is the policy of Northeast Iowa Community College not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age (employment), sexual orientation, gender identity, creed, religion, and actual or potential parental, family or marital status in its programs, activities, or employment practices as required by federal and state civil rights regulations.  If you have questions, concerns or to read the full policy www.nicc.edu/nondiscrimination