Orientation

Accessibility and accommodations

The University of Washington is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodations in its services, programs, and activities. To request accommodations, please complete our Special Accommodations Request form at least fifteen (15) days before your First Year Programs event. While we'll review requests made after this deadline, we cannot guarantee accommodations.  

Special Accommodations Request

To view accessible resources at First Year Program events, please review the information below.

Technology access for Advising & Orientation (A&O)

To fully participate in A&O Part 2, you'll need a laptop or desktop computer with internet connectivity. Please review our technology instructions for A&O for complete details.

Important note about Chromebooks: We do not recommend using Chromebooks due to compatibility issues with required updates and Zoom. If you must use a Chromebook, ensure your device is updated and install the Progressive Web App for Zoom. Remove any old Zoom versions before installing the new one.

Technology Loan Program

WiFi hotspots are available in limited quantities through the Student Technology Loan Program. For information about WiFi resources, review UWIT's website on using Wi-Fi at the UW.

How to request equipment:

  1. Visit the Student Technology Loan Program and select "Reserve"
  2. Choose your exact A&O session date (email stlp@uw.edu if your date isn't available)
  3. Select a macOS or Windows laptop and WiFi hotspot if needed
  4. Complete the reservation to receive email confirmation with shipping details

Equipment details:

  • Ships via UPS 1–2 days before your session
  • Available for up to 7 business days
  • Must be requested at least 7 days in advance
  • Shipping available within the U.S. only

Note: For technology access during the academic year, submit a separate request before the quarter begins.

Participation requirements

A&O sessions are crucial to your success. Please dedicate your full attention to the program—do not attempt to participate while working, in class, driving, or otherwise distracted. 

Captioning services

If you need captioning services during A&O, complete the Special Accommodations Form at least twenty (20) business days before your first A&O session. While all pre-recorded content includes closed captions, real-time captioning for live sessions must be requested in advance.  

Supporting neurodistinct Huskies

The UW is committed to supporting diverse learning styles as part of our mission. Neurodiversity presents differently in each person, and we want every Husky to feel welcome. Learn more about how the UW welcomes Neurodistinct Huskies.

Priority registration 

Priority registration is an accommodation available through Disability Resources for Students (DRS) that allows eligible undergraduate students to register for courses on the earliest possible date. Graduate and professional students should coordinate with their DRS Coordinator and department for early registration access.

How it works:

  • Current students with approval can register on the first day of Period I registration
  • New students with approval will have priority registration activated for subsequent quarters (not before their A&O session)
  • This accommodation doesn't override other restrictions like prerequisites, enrollment limits, or campus assignments

Learn more on the Disability Resources for Students website.

Equipment rentals

The University of Washington and First Year Programs do not provide medical equipment such as wheelchairs or mobility aids on campus. However, we can direct you to appropriate rental resources. Many external providers require at least ten (10) business days to process requests, so plan accordingly. Visit the Special Services website for equipment rental information.

Event locations 

First Year Program events take place in various campus buildings with both large and small classroom settings. All venues feature amplified sound and technology. Find locations on UW Maps.

Note: A&O Part 2 is remote; A&O Part 3 is on campus.

Primary buildings by audience:

Personal aide/assistant 

If you plan to bring a personal aide or assistant to a First Year Program event, please complete the Special Accommodations Form.

Accessible parking

If driving to campus, UW Transportation Services provides information on accessible parking permits. Permits are required for all campus parking:

  • Monday–Friday: 6:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.
  • Saturday: 7:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.

Visit the Transportation Services website for gatehouse locations and permit costs.

Support offices 

Disability Services Office (DSO)

The Disability Services Office (DSO) creates an accessible and inclusive campus environment by providing campus-wide resources including interpreters (sign language, oral, and tactile), real-time captioning, and departmental support.

Disability Resources for Students (DRS) 

Disability Resources for Students (DRS) helps eligible students establish accommodations during the academic year. Students with temporary or permanent physical, health, learning, sensory, or psychological disabilities may qualify for services. Visit their website to begin the process or access your existing account.

Recommendation: Begin the DRS accommodation process at least 30 business days before the academic quarter starts.

Disability Services Office
4300 Roosevelt Way NE
Seattle, WA 98105
dso@uw.edu
206-543-6450

Disability Resources for Students
Mary Gates Hall, Rm. 011 
uwdrs@uw.edu
206-543-8924 (voice and relay)
206-616-8379 (fax)