Supporting Students
Disability Services works in partnership with students to ensure equal access to academic programs, housing, and University activities. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where students with disabilities can fully engage in their education and campus life.
Our role is to review disability-related needs, determine reasonable accommodations, and serve as an advocate and resource throughout the accommodation process. We approach this work collaboratively, recognizing that disabilities can be visible or non-visible, temporary or permanent, and experienced differently by each individual.
Disability Services is grounded in an educational and supportive approach. We focus on removing barriers, promoting independence, and helping students navigate University systems with clarity and confidence.
You are not alone in this process.
How to Request a Disability Accommodation
We are here to support your success. If you have a disability and would like to request accommodations to help you access your academic, residential, or campus life experience, the process begins with a few simple steps:
Step 1: Reach Out
The first step is to contact the Disability Services Office. You can email us directly or start by exploring our website, where you will find detailed information and the Accommodation Request Form. Once we hear from you, we will guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have.
Step 2: Register with Disability Services
To get started, you will need to register by submitting some basic information about yourself and your needs. This creates your record with our office and allows us to begin reviewing your request.
Step 3: Join us for an Initial Meeting
We will invite you to an initial meeting—either in person or online—to get to know you, better understand your request, and explain the process in more detail. During this meeting, we will:
- Discuss the types of accommodations that may be available
- Review the kind of documentation that may be needed
- Answer your questions
- Outline the next steps
This conversation helps us ensure that the support we offer is tailored to your individual situation.
Step 4: Submit Your Medical Documentation
To complete your request, we will ask you to provide documentation from a qualified professional, if you have not already done so when you registered with Disability Services. This should describe your diagnosis, how it affects you, and any recommended accommodations. You can submit your documentation directly through our secure online system.
Step 5: Request Review
Once all documents are received, we begin reviewing your request. Some accommodations may be processed quickly. More complex requests may take a bit longer and may involve additional review by our Accommodation Committee. We’ll keep in touch with you throughout the process.
Step 6: Committee Review (if needed)
If your request requires committee review, our team will carefully evaluate all materials. We may contact you if additional information is needed. Our goal is to make sure each request receives fair and thoughtful consideration.
Step 7: Decision and Next Steps
You will receive a formal decision by email. If your accommodations are approved, we will send you everything you need including any letters for your instructors or housing team. If your request cannot be approved, we will explain why and help connect you with other resources or options that may support you.
We are committed to helping you thrive here at KAUST. If you have any questions along the way, please do not hesitate to reach out—we are here to support you.
How Long Does This Process Take?
After you submit your accommodation request, our team will review your materials and follow up with you. This review process can take time, depending on the nature of the request and the information provided. You are welcome to contact us at any point if you have questions, would like to share additional information, or wish to check on the status of your request.
We encourage you to reach out as early as possible. Some accommodations may take time to coordinate. The earlier we begin working with you, the more likely it is that accommodations will be in place when you need them.
Please note that accommodations are not applied retroactively. We are only able to support access from the time a request is reviewed and approved. If you are unsure whether accommodations may be appropriate, we encourage you to contact us so we can help you consider your options.
Disability Services FAQs - Registering with Student Disability Services
Yes. We are happy to meet with you to answer general questions about disability services and accommodations at KAUST. Meetings can be held remotely. Contact us to schedule a time.
No. All students applying to KAUST follow the same admissions process. Disability status is not considered during admission decisions.
However, once you receive an offer of admission, you should contact the Disability Support Office (DSO) to learn about support services. You should submit an accommodation request to explore what supports may be available—this can help you make an informed decision about attending KAUST.
No. Please submit documentation to the DSO only after you have received an admission offer.
There are no formal deadlines to register with the Disability Services. You may begin the process at any time, as disabilities can develop or become apparent during your time at KAUST.
However, we strongly encourage students to contact us as early as possible. Early registration allows us to provide timely support and ensure that accommodations are in place when you need them.
Please note:
- Accommodations are not retroactive. We cannot revise or amend past grades, assessments, or academic outcomes based on accommodations that were not in place at the time.
- Housing accommodations, including room changes or specialized room assignments, require a minimum of 30 days' advance notice to allow sufficient time for coordination with the Housing Office and to make necessary arrangements.
No, you do not need to re-register every semester. Accommodations are issued with an expiration date. If your accommodations are still needed after they expire, you must submit an extension request. This allows us to review your current situation and determine whether the accommodations should be continued or modified. If you are requesting new or different accommodations, you will need to complete a new Disability Registration Form.
Accommodations from other institutions do not automatically transfer to KAUST. Please register with our office so we can work with you to determine appropriate accommodations based on your current needs.
Yes. We encourage you to share your experience in your own words. The Registration Form helps us understand the specific impact of your disability on your academic and campus life. This allows us to develop a plan that fits your needs here at KAUST.