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Disability Services for Students

Grand Forks, ND

Students with Suspected Disabilities

There may be occasions when you notice a student having academic difficulties that cannot be explained by typical college circumstances. It may be the student has an undiagnosed disability or may not be using accommodations for a diagnosed disability. A student may ask for extra time and/or a private room because s/he has test anxiety or English is his/her second language. Neither of these situations is considered a disability. Do not assume someone having academic problems has a disability. This Info Sheet will help you decide when to refer a student to Disability Services for Students (DSS) for a consultation regarding a suspected disability.

  • Speak with the student privately. Be specific about the student’s performance and express your concern in a non-judgmental way:
    “I can tell you understand the concepts and are a good participant in class discussion, but your test grades don’t seem to reflect your knowledge of the subject.”
  • Asking a few questions about what is interfering with the student’s performance will help you make an appropriate referral:

  • “Tell me how you prepare for a test.” (Student Success Center)

    “How would extra time help you?” If the student is an international student, s/he could be understanding English at a much slower rate than other students. (International Center)

    “You seem to know the material, why are you so anxious when taking tests?” (Counseling Center)
  • If the student says s/he had extra help” or was identified as having a disability in high school or has tried other solutions without results, the student may have a previous or undiagnosed disability now interfering with academic performance. It is then appropriate to refer the student to Disability Services. The student can schedule an appointment for a confidential meeting.
    Contact DSS at 777-3425, email at und.dss@email.und.edu or stop by the office in McCannel Hall, Rm. 190.
Disability Services for Students
Room 190 McCannel Hall
2891 2nd Avenue North, Stop 9040
Grand Forks, ND 58202 9040
Telephone (701)777- 3425 Voice/TDD
Fax (701) 777 4170
Email: und.dss@email.und.edu