Learning Abroad Center

Institutional Roles & Responsibilities

Overview

The following guidelines assist in determining responsibility for providing study abroad accommodations for students with disabilities. Other institutions should consult with their legal counsel to determine if these guidelines are appropriate for their programs.

Role of Learning Abroad Center (LAC)

  • LAC staff may share information with the Disability Resource Center (DRC) staff as-needed.
  • The LAC should consult with the DRC to discuss possible alternative accommodations if the requested accommodations are not possible.
  • The LAC must help determine the basic requirements for participation in the program.

Role of Other Institutions

  • If a UofM student with a disability studies through an affiliate program, that organization is responsible for arranging the accommodations.
  • If a Non UofM student receives credit for study from his/her home institution, that institution is financially responsible for the cost of the accommodations.

Role of the Disability Resource Center (DRC)

  • DRC staff may share student information with the LAC for the purpose of determining whether a student can meet the essential requirements of education abroad program or for arranging disability accommodations.
  • Reasonable accommodations will be recommended by the DRC in consultation with the student, the LAC, and the overseas site.

Role of Student

  • Students need to make their disability accommodation needs known at least eight weeks prior to departure.
  • If disability needs change while overseas, students should notify their disability specialist promptly to discuss options.

Role of the University of Minnesota (UofM)

  • The UofM has no legal obligation to provide accommodations to students who do not provide neccessary documentation to the DRC or make timely requests.
  • The UofM is responsible for providing accommodations so that a student with a disability is not denied an opportunity to participate in the program because of his/her disability.
  • A personal attendant is not a required part of a program, so the UofM is not responsible for financing an attendant.
  • The UofM has a legal responsibility to provide reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities.
  • If the student receives credit from the UofM, the UofM is responsible for the cost of accommodations.