Along with an online application, the DSS Office requires students to submit supporting documentation. Included in this would be documentation from a qualified licensed professional who is familiar with the student and has expertise in evaluating and diagnosing their disability. Other forms of supporting documentation may include scores from college entrance exams (ACT/SAT/GRE, etc.), transcripts, as well as verification of previous accommodations (accommodation letters from college entrance exams, IEPs, 504 Plans, letters from previous institutions).
The documentation required to establish a disability will need to include:
- A written report from a qualified licensed professional who is familiar with the student and has expertise in evaluating and diagnosing their disability. Diagnosis alone does not automatically establish a disability nor indicate what accommodations are appropriate. Because of this, in addition to a diagnosis, the report will need to specify the functional limitations experienced by the student and how it has affected the student in major life activities. The more thorough and detailed the information, the more helpful it is for DSS to understand the nature and impact of the disability. Incomplete documentation may result in a request for additional information.
- Information from qualified licensed professionals must be typed on their letterhead and include their name, title, as well as the date(s) of evaluation, and be signed.
Loyola Marymount University (LMU) does not conduct diagnostic testing for learning disabilities or ADD/ADHD.
The DSS Office has developed guidelines for various disabilities that students should read over and share with their treating professional. These guidelines specify the type of information needed from the treating professional.
- ADHD Documentation Guidelines
- Learning Disability Documentation Guidelines
- Physical Disability Documentation Guidelines
- Psychiatric Disability Documentation Guidelines
Please note that obtaining an evaluation does not guarantee that you will qualify for accommodations under the ADA or California law.