At Cornell the Office of Disability Services recognizes that students are unique individuals whose disability may be part of their identity, but does not define who they are. We engage in an interactive process where we encourage students to share their previous experiences with accommodations, recognize their barriers to learning, and be honest about what has worked and what hasn't. Through this dialogue we identify options for accommodations that are the right fit for the individual - and promote the most independence possible. 

We support students who experience a variety of disabilities, including but not limited to the following:

  • ADHD
  • Learning disabilities
  • Physical disabilities
  • Neurodivergence 
  • Psychological disorders
  • Chronic health conditions
  • Brain injuries
  • Blindness and vision impairment

We offer a range of accommodation options to meet each student’s individual needs. If you have general questions regarding accommodations and services, please contact us.

Adapting to the Block Plan

This block plan is a uniquely intensive academic schedule that allows students to explore a different subject every 18 days. You will take one course at a time, with each block covering the same amount of material as a course on the semester system. A typical day might include four hours of class—plus labs or field trips. After class, students might read a few long chapters, spend time in the library doing research for a paper, and collaborate with classmates on a presentation. It is not unusual to have a small paper or homework problems due every night on top of progress towards larger on-going projects.   As you can imagine, every day counts!

  • There is an increased pace of reading required.  Students are regularly expected to read 50-150 pages of challenging course materials per night.  

  • There might be a homework assignment or writing assignment due each day.  This means that it is critical to use time management skills to make the most of your time.

Registering with Academic Support & Advising

We encourage admitted students to register with Disability Services as early as possible after confirming enrollment at Cornell College, preferably by August 1 for fall starts and December 1 for spring starts. This can be done through the Admitted Student Checklist.  

Visiting campus?

We’d be happy to meet with you! Please let Admissions know you’d like to meet with the Coordinator of Disability Services as part of your visit and they can coordinate that meeting for you.