Access Centre

Access for Students with Disabilities is responsible for providing specialized support services for students with learning, physical, medical, and mental health disabilities. We are here to assist students gain equal access to all facilities, programs, and college services through reasonable and appropriate accommodations.

Our mission

Our mission is to ensure equal access to educational opportunities for students with disabilities, and to create an environment where people are judged on their abilities, not disabilities. As such, we are committed to working with students to empower and maximize their potential, while helping them to develop their independence. 

Accommodations and services

• Exam accommodations: extended time, distraction-free environment, computers
• In-class note-takers
• Audio recording of lectures
• Elevator and accessible parking passes
• Relocation of class to a more accessible location
• Sign language interpreting services
• Alternative formats or enlarged copies of tests or documents
• Adaptive software and training: Dragon Naturally Speaking (voice recognition software), Kurzweil (text-to-speech software), Zoomtext (magnifying software), etc.
• Adaptive equipment: computers, laptops, desks and chairs
• Scribes
• Accompanier or classroom aide

Other services offered at Access

• Guided school tour
• Time management tools, learning and exam-taking strategies
• Screening and referral for assessment for suspected learning disabilities or ADHD

Access registration procedure

In college, it is the responsibility of students to identify themselves and request accommodations as soon as they are accepted to Vanier College. The following steps must be taken: