Many students benefit from academic accommodations at some point during their time on campus. If a disability, health condition, or other circumstance is affecting your access to learning, CMU has a process to help.
How to request accommodations
All accommodation requests are handled by Carnegie Mellon’s central Office of Disability Resources (ODR), which works with students at all CMU locations, including Silicon Valley.
When you’re ready, check out their site to:
- Learn how the accommodations process works
- Review documentation guidelines
- Access the Accommodations Management Portal (AMP) to submit your request
*Note: When asked to select a campus location, choose Pittsburgh. There is no separate listing for Silicon Valley, but your request will be processed just the same.
What to expect
The Office of Disability Resources will review your request and documentation and engage with you in an interactive process. This is a conversation meant to explore what’s needed and possible based on your situation and academic context.
If accommodations are approved, they apply to your CMU-Silicon Valley experience. Our student affairs team can then help support local implementation and coordination where needed.
Need help along the way?
If you have questions or want to talk through the process, you have options:
- Contact the Office of Disability Resources directly via their website for questions about documentation, eligibility, and timelines.
- Reach out locally if you'd like a referral to ODR or additional local support.
If you have questions or need help along the way, we’re here to support you with clear information and thoughtful guidance.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to disclose my condition or situation to anyone on campus?
No. All accommodation requests are handled by CMU’s Office of Disability Resources. You do not need to share any medical or personal information with CMU-Silicon Valley faculty or staff. However, if you’d like local support, you’re always welcome to reach out to Student Affairs.
What kinds of accommodations are available?
Accommodations vary depending on your needs and program context. Examples might include extended time on exams, note-taking support, or modified attendance plans. The Office of Disability Resources will work with you directly to determine what’s appropriate.
Can I talk to someone before I submit anything?
Yes. You’re welcome to reach out to the Office of Disability Resources or connect with Student Affairs at CMU-SV if you want help understanding the process or just want to talk it through.
What if I’m not sure whether I qualify?
You don’t need to have it all figured out before you reach out. Many students start by describing their experience and learning about what support might be available.
When should I submit my request?
As soon as possible. The earlier you begin the process, the better positioned the department will be to support you. Accommodations are not retroactive, so it’s helpful to have things in place before a challenge arises.
I don’t see “Silicon Valley” as a location option when requesting accommodations. What should I select?
You should select "Pittsburgh" when filling out the accommodation request form. The Office of Disability Resources serves all CMU campuses, including Silicon Valley, and choosing “Pittsburgh” will ensure your request goes to the right team.