30 Jul BMCC 504 Accessibility Services Guide
UTILIZING BMCC 504 ACCESSIBILITY SERVICES FOR ADHD

Navigating college life can be challenging, especially for students with ADHD and other learning differences. Accessibility services are crucial in ensuring all students have the support they need to succeed academically. It’s also critical for college students to understand the importance of advocating for their 504 accommodations. At Borough of Manhattan Community College (BMCC), the Accessibility Services Office provides resources and accommodations to help students thrive. Learn more about BMCC’s accessibility services.
Understanding 504 Accessibility Services at BMCC
BMCC offers a comprehensive range of accessibility services to support students with disabilities, including ADHD and other learning differences. These services include:
- Academic Accommodations: Extended time for tests, note-taking assistance, and alternative format textbooks.
- Assistive Technology: Access to specialized software and equipment to aid in learning.
- Personalized Support: One-on-one meetings with accessibility counselors to develop individualized accommodation plans.
These services benefit all students by promoting an inclusive and supportive educational environment. By addressing individual needs, BMCC ensures that every student has the opportunity to achieve their academic goals. For more information, visit the BMCC Accessibility Services page.
Steps to Get Accommodations for Students Without an ADHD Diagnosis
Step 1: Recognize Your Needs
Many students face academic challenges that can be alleviated with the right support. Common challenges include difficulty concentrating, organizing tasks, and managing time effectively. Conduct a self-assessment to identify areas where you might benefit from accommodations. Consider your academic history and any struggles you’ve encountered.
Step 2: Research and Gather Information
Start by exploring the BMCC Accessibility Services page to understand available accommodations. Examples of accommodations at BMCC include:
- Priority registration
- Extended time on exams
- Note-taking services
- Access to assistive technology
The Office of Accessibility at BMCC provides videos explaining procedures for registering for accommodations, requesting accommodation letters, and receiving extended time for exams. These resources inform students about the support available and how to access it effectively.
Gather as much information as possible about the types of support you might need.
Step 3: Meet with an Advisor
To begin obtaining accommodations, schedule a meeting with an accessibility services advisor at BMCC. You can do this by contacting the Accessibility Services Office directly through their website or visiting their campus office.
During the meeting, you can expect to:
- Discuss your academic challenges and needs.
- Learn about the documentation required for accommodations.
- Develop an individualized accommodation plan tailored to your specific needs.
The advisors help you navigate the process and ensure you receive the support necessary for your academic success.

Step 4: Provide Documentation
To receive accommodations, you’ll need to provide documentation of your learning differences or disabilities. This documentation helps the accessibility services team understand your needs and determine appropriate accommodations. Types of documentation that might be needed include:
- Medical Records: Documentation from a healthcare provider detailing your diagnosis and the impact on your academic performance.
- Psychoeducational Evaluation: A comprehensive assessment conducted by a psychologist includes cognitive and academic testing.
- IEP or 504 Plan: This documentation can be helpful if you have an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or a 504 Plan in high school.
Appropriate and current documentation must be provided following the CUNY Disability Documentation Guidelines. Prior documents like an IEP or previous accommodations do not guarantee continued services but can be submitted alongside current documentation. Send your Applications for Services along with your documentation to [email protected]. Approved students will be contacted to set up an initial meeting, so check your email regularly.
Note Takers:
Students approved for a note-taker will have this accommodation for remote learning classes. Professors and note-takers have been informed of the new procedures. For questions, contact Kokou at [email protected].
Ensure your documentation is current and clearly explains your needs. If you are unsure what specific documentation is required, the accessibility services advisor can provide guidance.
Here is a list of neuropsychology evaluation sites in NYC that offer low-cost neuropsychology evaluations for students needing a psychoeducational assessment. This can be a valuable resource for obtaining the necessary documentation.
Step 5: Follow Up and Advocate
Importance of Follow-Up Meetings
Follow-up meetings ensure accommodations are effective and address new challenges. They help assess accommodation effectiveness, track academic progress, and communicate openly with your accessibility services team.
Tips for Self-Advocacy and Effective Communication with Professors
- Be Proactive: Discuss accommodations with professors at the semester’s start.
- Prepare Documentation: Have your accommodation letter ready to share.
- Communicate Clearly: Articulate your needs with specific examples.
- Stay Organized: Use planners or apps to manage your schedule.
- Build Relationships: Attend office hours and participate in class.
- Seek Support: Contact your accessibility advisor if challenges arise.
Regular follow-up and self-advocacy create a supportive academic environment, enhancing your learning experience and academic success.

Maximizing Accessibility Services for Students with an ADHD Diagnosis
Step 1: Understand Your Rights and Available Services
Understanding your rights under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. These laws ensure that students with ADHD are entitled to reasonable accommodations and services that provide equal access to education. They prohibit discrimination based on disability and require schools to provide necessary accommodations.
Specific services and accommodations for ADHD may include:
- Extended time on tests and assignments.
- Preferential seating to minimize distractions.
- Note-taking assistance or access to lecture notes.
- Use of technology aids (e.g., text-to-speech software).
- Breaks during classes or tests to manage attention and fatigue.
- Quiet or private testing environments.
Step 2: Schedule an Appointment with Accessibility Services
Preparing for your appointment with accessibility services involves researching your school’s office and understanding their process for requesting accommodations. It’s helpful to write down specific challenges you face and how they impact your academic performance.
Bring the following documentation to your appointment:
- A current diagnosis from a licensed professional outlining your ADHD and its impact on learning.
- Any previous accommodation plans or records of accommodations used in the past.
- Educational or psychological assessments that support your need for accommodations.
Step 3: Create a Personalized Accommodation Plan
Creating a personalized accommodation plan requires collaboration with accessibility services staff to identify accommodations that address your specific challenges. Ensure that the plan is realistic and feasible within the academic environment.
Examples of accommodations that can be included are:
- Adjusted assignment deadlines.
- Organizational aids such as planners or electronic reminders.
- Modified course loads or part-time enrollment options.
- Access to specialized tutoring or study skills workshops.
Step 4: Utilize Support Resources
In addition to accommodations, various support resources are available on campus:
- Tutoring centers that offer subject-specific help.
- Counseling services for managing stress and developing coping strategies.
- Peer mentoring programs for academic and social support.
- Workshops on time management, study skills, and organizational strategy.
- All tutoring is now online. Go to the Learning Resource Center and select Online Tutoring to learn about “Upswing,” the new tutoring system, and other related questions.
Integrating these resources with your accommodation plan involves meeting regularly with tutors and counselors, attending workshops, and utilizing peer mentors for additional guidance and support.

Step 5: Regularly Review and Adjust Your Plan
Regular check-ins with accessibility services are essential to evaluating the effectiveness of your accommodations. You should also schedule periodic meetings to discuss new challenges or changes in your academic situation.
To make adjustments as needed to your accommodation plan:
- Be proactive in communicating with professors and accessibility services if an accommodation is not working.
- Request modifications or additional accommodations based on feedback and changing needs.
- Stay informed about new resources or services that may enhance your academic success.
Tips for Academic Success
Academic success can be achieved through various strategies and resources for students with ADHD and other learning differences.
- Effective time management is crucial. Students should prioritize tasks, use planners to track assignments and important dates, set realistic goals to maintain motivation and take regular breaks to prevent burnout.
- Developing study skills and note-taking techniques can enhance learning and retention. Active reading, using graphic organizers, practicing retrieval, and employing structured note-taking methods like the Cornell Note-Taking System are beneficial.
- Managing stress and maintaining mental health is vital. Techniques such as mindfulness, regular physical activity, and utilizing counseling services are essential. Additionally, students can benefit from resources like peer support groups and other stress management tools.
- Leveraging technology can also aid learning; digital planners and calendars, task management apps like Trello and Todoist, note-taking apps like Evernote and OneNote, and assistive technologies like text-to-speech tools can be extremely helpful.
By integrating these strategies and utilizing available resources, students with ADHD and other learning differences can achieve academic success and thrive in their educational journeys.
External Supports and Services
Executive Function Coaching
Executive function coaching supports students, helping them manage time, stay organized, and improve study habits. Coaches assist in creating schedules, setting priorities, and meeting deadlines, which is vital for coursework and responsibilities. They help organize materials and workspaces, reducing clutter and boosting efficiency.
Additionally, coaches aid in developing study routines and learning strategies to enhance academic performance and retention. By setting realistic goals and actionable plans, students can achieve educational and personal objectives while learning to monitor progress, reflect on performance, and make necessary adjustments.
Local services such as Themba Tutors specialize in working with students with ADHD and other learning differences. They offer personalized coaching to enhance executive functioning skills. Themba Tutors’ evidence-based strategies improve academic performance and overall well-being, providing a comprehensive support system for students.
Psychiatric Services:
About Dr. Michael Roman

Dr. Michael Roman specializes in diagnosing and treating ADHD and other mental health challenges, specifically in students. With years of experience in Adolescent and Adult Psychiatry, Dr. Roman is dedicated to helping young individuals navigate their academic and personal lives more effectively.
He offers a wide range of psychiatric services designed to meet each student’s unique needs. From thorough assessments to precise diagnosis and individualized treatment planning, his approach is tailored to ensure the best patient outcomes.
Dr. Roman provides same-day stimulant and non-stimulant treatment options to manage ADHD symptoms effectively. He works closely with students to determine the most effective medication regimen, continuously monitoring and adjusting as necessary to achieve optimal results.
Recognizing that medication is just one part of comprehensive care, Dr. Roman also addresses underlying issues such as anxiety, depression, and stress. He offers or refers patients to therapeutic services that complement medication management, ensuring a holistic approach to mental health.
Dr. Michael Roman is committed to providing compassionate and expert care to help students academically and personally thrive. Reach out today to start your journey towards better mental health.
Mental health is crucial to academic success and overall quality of life. Students need to seek psychiatric support when symptoms interfere with daily functioning and academic performance.
Quantitative Electroencephalography (QEEG):
Quantitative Electroencephalography (QEEG) brain mapping is used to understand ADHD and its impact on executive function. QEEG is a tool that measures electrical activity in the brain to identify abnormalities associated with ADHD. This information can guide personalized treatment plans, such as neurofeedback or other therapeutic interventions, to improve mental health and cognitive functioning. Reach out to Themba Tutors who can highly recommend several QEEG providers.
Important Forms
Please contact the Office of Accessibility if you have any questions about the following forms:
- Application for Accommodations and Services update (pdf)
- Testing Accommodations Agreement (online form)
- Medical Information-Verification-of-Diagnosis-2023 (pdf)
- Accommodation letter request (pdf)
- Release of Examination Form (pdf) or Release of Examination (online form)
- Request for sign language interpreting services (pdf)
- Authorization to Release Documentation (pdf)
Conclusion
Borough of Manhattan Community College (BMCC) offers accessibility services to support students with ADHD and other learning differences, including academic accommodations, assistive technology, and personalized support. To obtain these accommodations, students should identify their needs, research available services, meet with an advisor, provide necessary documentation, and follow up regularly.
Students with ADHD are protected under the ADA and Section 504, ensuring they receive appropriate support. Academic success can be enhanced through time management, study skills, stress management, and technology use. External supports like executive function coaching and psychiatric services also improve performance and well-being.
Utilizing BMCC’s accessibility services and external support can greatly impact academic success. Taking advantage of these resources can help students overcome challenges and thrive.
Students are encouraged to contact BMCC’s Accessibility Services Office to discuss their needs and explore available resources and accommodations. For more information, visit the BMCC Accessibility Services page.
Craig Selinger
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