Resources for Parents

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Is my child eligible for Student Accessibility Services?

  All students who are currently enrolled at the university are eligible. If you identify with any disabilities, health concerns or injuries a diagnosis of a disability is requested but not required for students to receive academic accommodations.

• What documentation will my child need to provide?

  In order for students to receive academic accommodations, their functional impairments need to be verified by an appropriately regulated health care professional in the Province of Ontario. Students can use the OSAP Verification of Disability Form (DVF), a recent Psychoeducational Assessment, or a Functional Abilities Form (FAF) provided by SAS. 

  SAS can help facilitate updated assessment through the Bursary for Students with Disabilities (BSWD) and our partners at the Regional Assessment and Resource Centre (RARC). 

• How can my child get more involved?

  There are many programs available to new students at Ontario Tech University including the Ambassador Program, Peer Leaders, the Ontario Tech Student Union (OTSU) or Equity Advisor. Each program provides unique opportunities for your child to get more familiar with their new campus community and meet other students across campus. 

• Can I connect with SAS if I have questions?
  Yes, you can contact SAS anytime if you have general questions. However, you will need the explicit permission of your child over the age of 18 if you'd like to discuss private information.
• Are there any peers my student can be connected with?
  Yes! We have a Peer Coaching program that can give your child the opportunity to learn from currently enrolled students, many of whom also use SAS services. These students can connect them to social, academic and other opportunities across campus.
• Are there any supports in place for mobility, especially in the winter when walking can be difficult for a student with a physical disability?
  We work with facilities to ensure that all students, staff, faculty and visitors to campus have full support. While SAS does not create accommodations outside of the classroom we can work with other units to ensure all needs are met and there is no interruption to students' education.
• How are instructors notified about student accommodations?

  After the Intake Appointment, your student will review their accommodations through the SAS Student Portal. Once they have reviewed and approved letters, they are automatically generated and the accommodations are emailed directly to their professor for each course. 

  No private health information is included in these letters only the information pertinent to providing accommodation support (e.g. Extra Time, Computerized Note Taking, Ergonomic Equipment etc.,) 

• Is special consideration given to students with disabilities who are applying to Ontario Tech?

  Ontario Tech is committed to educating students who reflect the diversity of Canada. We believe that a campus that is equitable, diverse and inclusive drives innovation and excellence, enhances quality and integrity, and helps us to achieve our potential as a university community.

  Please see the Admissions Special Consideration page for more information. 

• Is there an orientation program that new students can participate in so they can learn about the campus and its services?
  Yes. The Summer Transition Program (STP) offered by Student Accessibility Services is for students transitioning from the high school context to their first year in university. More inforamtion can be found on our events page, or by contacting SAS directly.
• How do students with disabilities access the services offered?
  Students must register with Student Accessibiltiy Services (SAS) through the Intake Process. Once the student has been registered they can access all the services associated with SAS.
• Who will manage my child's academic accommodations?

  Students are ultimately responsible for managing their own accommodations. SAS staff will assist first year students in understanding the accommodation process and procedures. However, it is up to the student to learn these processes and renew their accommodations each semester to ensure they are getting the support they need. Students can reach out to SAS anytime they need support or may need to change their accommodations plan.

• How do I find out more about Financial Aid?

  The Student Awards and Financial Aid (SAFA) office wants to ensure you achieve financial success while pursuing your post-secondary education. Our team is committed to providing students with support ranging from the Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP), on-campus employment opportunities through the University Works program and a variety of bursaries and scholarships.