Disability Accommodation
Requesting Accommodation
Students requesting accommodations in University Residences must complete both a Housing application and a request with DAC. Requests should adhere to housing deadlines and priority dates. Requests submitted after fall quarter deadlines, and all requests made for winter/spring quarters, will be processed as soon as space becomes available, but may be added to a waitlist.
- University Residences works in partnership with DAC to provide accommodations that meet individual student needs.
- Accommodations in housing are determined by DAC on a case-by-case basis. For more information on receiving accommodations, contact the Disability Access Center.
On This Page
Available Housing Accommodations
Single Room Options
Wheelchair Accessible Room and Bath
Furniture Adjustments
Room Equipped With a Visual Fire Alert
Special Bathroom Needs
Medical Related Dietary Consult
Early Arrival
Housing With a Service Animal or ESA
Note: More options may be available depending on your needs.
Timeline for Disability Accommodation
Application Deadlines
The DAC recommends that students looking for housing accommodations should apply at least two weeks before the deadline for each quarter. On these dates, the DAC will inform University Residences of approved accommodations and the type of room required.
| New/Returning | Quarter | Date |
|---|---|---|
| Returning Students | Fall Quarter | February 15 |
| New Residents | Fall Quarter | June 15 |
| New Residents | Winter Quarter | November 15 |
| New Residents | Spring Quarter | February 15 |
| New Residents | Summer Quarter | May 15 |
Step-by-Step Process for Disability Accommodation
Step 1: Apply for Housing
Before moving forward, be sure to apply for housing from the MyHousing Portal.
When applying for housing, make sure to choose 'Yes' under the question: "Do you plan to request accommodation?". You will find this on the building preferences page in the Disability Accommodation section, as shown below in Red.
Be aware of Housing Timelines and Deadlines to avoid missing any important dates.
Step 2: Apply for Disability Accommodation
Next apply for services with the Disability Access Center (DAC) and submit documentation from your healthcare provider.
Application Process
DAC engages in an interactive process with students to address any barriers that may prevent a successful housing experience. Please allow at least two weeks for this step, which may include DAC scheduling appointments, reviewing medical documentation, and coordinating any necessary follow-up with the student or their healthcare provider.
Note: DAC recommends students apply at least two weeks before the dates outlined in the previous section to ensure your needs are met in time for room assignments.
Step 3: Accommodation Approval
The DAC will notify the student of approved accommodations and whether any additional steps are required.
Application Deadlines
The DAC will inform University Residences of any approved accommodations and the type of room required on the following dates:
| New/Returning | Quarter | Date |
|---|---|---|
| Returning Students | Fall Quarter | February 15 |
| New Residents | Fall Quarter | June 15 |
| New Residents | Winter Quarter | November 15 |
| New Residents | Spring Quarter | February 15 |
| New Residents | Summer Quarter | May 15 |
DAC-approved accommodations are given priority room placement, however applications submitted after the deadline(s) are assigned on a space available basis and may include a waitlist.
Step 4: Housing Assignments
University Residences will place students in housing consistent with their DAC-approved accommodations.
Room assignments are posted in MyHousing.
Room Assignment Priority
All new students, including students with DAC-approved accommodations, who meet the housing deadlines, are guaranteed on-campus housing their first year at Western, or remainder thereof if admitted mid-year. For students who do not meet housing deadlines or who apply mid-year, housing may be unavailable or housing options may be limited due to space availability.
Service Animals and ESAs
For more information regarding service animals or emotional support animals in University Residences, please refer to the Community Standards Animals in Residence section, and Disability Accommodations section.
Note: Requests submitted after fall quarter deadlines, and all requests made for winter or spring quarters, will be processed as soon as space becomes available, but may be added to a waitlist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Disability Accommodations Policy
Legal Obligation
University Residences adheres to the University's Accommodating Persons with Disabilities policy (POL-U1600.03), which is in compliance with Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 as amended; Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (P.L. 93-11) and 45 C.F.R. Part 84; Fair Housing Act of 1968 42 U.S.C. Sec. 3601 et seq., Chapter 49.60 RCW; and Chapter 288.20 RCW.
Disability Accommodation Commitment
University Residences recognizes the importance of providing reasonable accommodations in its policies and practices and is committed to supporting the University's educational purpose and mission. University Residences work in partnership with the Disability Access Center (DAC) to provide comparable, convenient, and accessible housing to students with disabilities, without charging higher room rates for a DAC approved disability accommodation.