/Institutions/University-of-Dubai/json/2025-2026/Student-Handbook-2025-26-local.json

/Institutions/University-of-Dubai/json/2025-2026/Student-Handbook-2025-26.json

Student Handbook 2025-26 > Students of Determination

Students of Determination

Policy 

UD does not discriminate against Students of Determination in its admissions process. All applicants are considered for admission based on their qualifications and potential for academic success, regardless of any special needs. Applicants with special needs are encouraged to self-identify and disclose their special needs during the application process, so that the university can put appropriate support and accommodations in place if required.

1. Initial Process 

1. Report diagnosis and provide supporting documentation to the Admissions department (at time of enrollment) or the DSS (for those reporting after admission to UD)

   • Reporting during the admissions process is ideal to ensuring the success of the student and allows time for UD to set up a plan with the student to support them to be successful in their academic career.

   • We are open to students reporting (with supporting documentation) at any point in their academic career however, it is important to note that accommodations and modifications cannot be offered in arrears and can only be offered moving forward once the student has gone through the process and submitted required documentation 

2. Admissions or DSS will connect you with our Student Counselor for meeting to discuss accommodations

3. Accommodations will be agreed upon with the relevant colleges and departments and then shared in the student’s file and instructors will be made aware of the accommodations by the student counselor.

4. If the proposed accommodations are unfeasible or are not approved by the college under any circumstances, the Student Counselor will notify the Admissions team (if the student is at the enrollment stage) or inform the student directly (if already enrolled).

5. After each semester the Student Counselor should reach out to the student to review and evaluate the current plan to see:

   • If it is effective in helping the student to be successful 

   •  If additional modifications or accommodations can be made to support the student further

 

  2.  Student Counselor Responsibilities towards SOD:

• Act as the main contact for Students of Determination.

• Review documentation and develop individualized accommodation plans.

• Ensure that all submitted documentation is authentic and issued within the past two years.

• Coordinate with faculty and departments to implement accommodations.

• Update the student file and inform instructors of approved accommodations.

• Notify Admissions or the student if accommodations are feasible or not.

• Meet students each semester to review and adjust accommodation plans as needed.

• Maintain accurate and confidential records.

• Ensure compliance with UD policies and standards.

• Promote awareness and support inclusive practices within the university.

Note: The Student Counselor may provide recommendations for academic accommodations based on individual student cases. Final decisions regarding the approval and implementation of such accommodations shall be made in coordination with the relevant Program Director. In cases where consensus cannot be reached, the matter shall be escalated to the VPAA for final resolution.

 

3. Faculty and Staff Responsibilities:UD’s faculty and staff are responsible for ensuring that students with special needs have equal access to academic programs and activities. Faculty and staff are expected to:

1. Implement approved accommodations of identified students which will be shared in the CAMS system 

2. Maintain confidentiality of student disability information

3. Treat students of determination with respect and dignity 

4. Provide accessible course materials

 

4. Student of Determination responsibility:

• Disclose special needs and submit documentation early.

• Participate in accommodation planning meetings.

• Attend regular check-ins with the Student Counselor.

• Use approved accommodations responsibly.

• Communicate promptly about any changes or issues.

• Engage respectfully with faculty, staff, and peers

 

5. Financial Responsibility:

• UD is committed to providing accommodations within its institutional resources.

• If specific accommodations require additional personal or specialized services, the associated costs will need to be covered by the SOD or their guardian. Examples may include personal aides, private therapy, or customized equipment not available through the university.

• UD will gladly assist students in identifying external sources or community resources where possible.

 

6. Training

  Each year faculty and staff will be provided with the opportunity for training on SOD by UD.  All faculty are highly encouraged to attend and be an active participant in this training.  Yearly topics will vary depending on requirements. 

 

  7. Classrooms, labs and facilities (e.g. parking and washrooms)