Schedule
Early Dismissal/Late Arrival
Permission to leave class early or arrive late to avoid crowded hallways
School
MobilitySafetyCrowd Management
Getting the Accommodations You Deserve
Accommodations help level the playing field for people with chronic conditions. Whether you're in school, taking exams, or working, you have rights to reasonable accommodations that enable you to perform at your best.
Expert Insight
Dr. Sarah Cohen Solomon, pediatrician specializing in EDS and comorbidities, emphasizes the crucial importance of having medical advocates who support accommodation needs, especially during school years.
Understanding Your Rights
Education (K-12)
IDEA and Section 504 protect students with disabilities, ensuring free appropriate public education.
Testing
Standardized tests, professional licensing, and academic exams must provide reasonable accommodations.
Employment
Americans with Disabilities Act requires employers to provide reasonable workplace accommodations.
Physical
Elevator Access
Priority access to elevators instead of using stairs
SchoolWorkplace
MobilityEDSJoint Protection
Support
Extra Snack Time
Additional time for meals and snacks to manage blood sugar and medications
SchoolWorkplace
POTSMedicalNutrition
Academic
Extended Assignment Time
Additional time to complete homework and projects
School
CognitiveExecutive FunctionFatigue
Academic
Note-taking Support
Peer notes, recording lectures, or scribe assistance
SchoolWorkplace
CognitiveFatigueExecutive Function
Support
Movement Breaks
Permission to stand, stretch, and move around during class or work
SchoolWorkplace
EDSPainCirculationJoint Protection
Schedule
Extended Time
50% to 100% additional time for tests and exams
TestingSchool
CognitiveFatigueExecutive Function
Environment
Quiet Testing Room
Separate room to minimize distractions and noise
TestingSchool
SensoryCognitiveMCAS
Equipment
Large Print Materials
Enlarged text and answer sheets for easier reading
TestingSchoolWorkplace
SensoryVisualFatigue
Equipment
Alternative Answer Format
Circle answers instead of filling bubbles, verbal responses
TestingSchool
EDSFine MotorJoint Protection
Support
Frequent Breaks
Rest periods during long exams to manage fatigue and pain
TestingSchoolWorkplace
FatiguePainME/CFSPOTS
Equipment
Assistive Technology
Text-to-speech, voice recognition, ergonomic tools
TestingSchoolWorkplace
CognitiveEDSFatigue
Schedule
Remote Work Options
Work from home flexibility for medical appointments and symptom management
Workplace
MedicalFatiguePOTS
Equipment
Ergonomic Workstation
Adjustable desk, supportive chair, keyboard/mouse modifications
WorkplaceSchool
EDSPainJoint Protection
Schedule
Flexible Schedule
Modified hours to accommodate medical needs and energy levels
WorkplaceSchool
MedicalFatigueME/CFS
Support
Frequent Rest Breaks
Additional breaks beyond standard to manage symptoms
WorkplaceSchool
FatiguePainPOTS
Physical
Accessible Parking
Reserved parking closer to building entrance
WorkplaceSchool
MobilityEDSFatigue
Support
Task Modification
Adjusting job duties to accommodate physical limitations
Workplace
PainMobilityFatigue
Environment
Temperature Control
Access to heating/cooling or ability to modify workspace temperature
WorkplaceSchoolTesting
POTSTemperature RegulationMCAS
Academic
Reduced Course Load
Taking fewer classes per semester to manage workload
School
FatigueME/CFSCognitive
Support
Medical Alert Notification
System to alert staff of medical emergencies or needs
SchoolWorkplace
MedicalPOTSMCAS
Environment
Scent-Free Environment
Policies to minimize strong fragrances and chemicals
SchoolWorkplaceTesting
MCASSensoryChemical Sensitivity
How to Request Accommodations
1
Document Your Needs
Gather medical documentation and identify specific functional limitations
2
Research Your Rights
Understand ADA, Section 504, and IDEA protections that apply to your situation
3
Submit Formal Request
Contact disability services or HR with written accommodation request
4
Engage in Interactive Process
Work collaboratively to identify effective accommodations
Additional Resources
Request Templates
Download sample letters and forms for requesting accommodations in various settings.
Legal Resources
Learn more about your rights under ADA, Section 504, and IDEA from official sources.
Visit ADA.govNeed Help Getting Started?
Requesting accommodations can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to do it alone. Connect with disability services, advocacy organizations, or legal resources for support.