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Conversion of course materials into alternate formats is required by students whose disabilities affect the processing of materials, for example, blind or partially sighted students, students with certain learning disabilities, and students with other conditions, such as Irlen Syndrome.

The types of alternate formats prepared depend upon the nature of the student's disability and the equipment/software used. In-house production can involve scanning and, in many cases, formatting materials so that they are ready for use as alternate formats, including e-text, large print, Braille, and audio.

Students

To access Alternate Format Services, students can register for accommodations with .

Instructors

Course Materials

Have your course materials arrive at the bookstore three weeks in advance of the start of classes. This allows our office sufficient time to obtain the materials and begin the process of adapting them before classes begin. It ensures your student has course material to work with from the start of term. Understandably, you will not know you have a student who requires an alternate format much before the term begins, so by regularly ordering in advance, your material will always be accessible. When providing readings or handouts in class, offering a text accessible electronic version (pdf, doc, docx, rtf) provides students with a format that can be read using assistive technology software and/or be more readily adapted into the required format.

Exams

To ensure students receive the accommodations they are approved for, it is strongly recommended that you enter exam details for all quizzes, tests, midterms, and final exams in as early as possible—ideally when your course outline is finalized.

For a simple step by step guide for Accommodate, see the .

When are the deadlines to enter exam details?

Why should I enter exam details early?

• Early entry helps students register accurately and on time.
• It allows our team to coordinate support and avoid last-minute workarounds.
• It reduces confusion, delays, and unnecessary back-and-forth—especially during high-volume periods.
• Some accommodations may still require our support—even if you plan to proctor the exam yourself. Submitting exam details in Accommodate is essential for ensuring appropriate support, fulfilling reporting requirements, and contributing to a smooth and equitable exam experience for the student.

Occasionally, exam questions may be unsuitable for conversion to an alternate format (for example, a three-dimensional image). In this case, a member of the Alternate Format Team will contact you to discuss the possibility of an adapted question that will test the same content/concept in a more suitable format.