Working in close collaboration with the University's Disability and Learning Difference Resource Center (DLDRC), the School of Law is committed to helping USD Law students with verified disabilities obtain academic accommodations and support, and to help improve access to the many excellent programs and activities offered by the University.
DLDRC Services
The DLDRC's services include evaluating disability documentation, arranging academic accommodations and providing disability management and counseling to students with disabilities. Accommodations are available for documented permanent and temporary disabilities. Accommodations are determined on an individualized basis by the DLDRC. The DLDRC works closely with the School of Law to coordinate and implement accommodations.
Requesting Services
- Students should start by reviewing the accommodations process on the DLDRC website.
- Students requesting accommodations must review the requirements with their care providers and have providers submit documentation (on their letterhead) to USD via email, fax, mail or in-person delivery.
- Email: disabilityservices@sandiego.edu
- Fax: (619) 260-4699
- Disability Services, Saints Tekakwitha & Serra Hall 300, University of San Diego, San Diego, CA 92110
- See documentation requirements
- Students may also make an appointment with Law Student Affairs to discuss their needs.
Exam Accommodations
The Assistant Dean for Law Student Affairs approves special arrangements, when appropriate and received by the relevant deadline each semester. View the Exams page for more information on how to request an exam accommodation and for what instances an exam accommodation may be approved.
Frequently Asked Questions
As soon as possible to allow sufficient time for approval and implementation. Accommodations are not available until a student completes the DLDRC's evaluation and documentation process.
The most common accommodations are extra time on exams or notetakers for class. Accommodations are always tailored to each individual student.
Exams are graded anonymously. Therefore for exam accommodations, your professor will not be told that you were accommodated. Accommodated students should not discuss exam accommodations with professors to preserve grading anonymity. Professors will be informed of certain classroom accommodations such as use of recording devices, use of laptops or adaptive technology, and preferential seating, among others.
It is possible your classmates may deduce that you receive exam accommodations because you may be taking your exams in a different location. To develop strategies to address these questions, students should visit the DLDRC.
Your transcript will not contain any mention of accommodations you received in law school.
Testing accommodations for the bar exam and/or MPRE are available to individuals with disabilities. Each testing agency has its own forms, regulations, procedures, and timelines for applying for accommodations. You should refer to the appropriate state bar or testing agency website for specific information regarding standardized testing accommodations.