How can a financial aid office make services accessible to a student who is blind or has low vision?

First, the financial aid office can assure that the facilities are safe for a student who is blind or a student with low vision to navigate. Make sure that walking paths in public areas are unobstructed; minimize clutter and protruding objects. Second, make publications, forms, and applications used in the financial aid process available in accessible formats, such as large print, Braille, and an accessible version. Third, if you have computers available for student use, provide assistive technology such as screen-reader and screen-magnifier software. Finally, make sure staff members are sensitive to the unique needs of people with visual impairments and communication issues.

For additional information on making your financial aid office more accessible to students with disabilities, consult the Financial Aid area of The Student Services Conference Room.