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ALS: International Students | Accessible Learning Services | Seneca Students

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ALS: International Students

Accessible Learning Services for International Students at Seneca Polytechnic 

At Seneca Polytechnic, we are committed to providing an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students, including our international student community. Our Accessible Learning Services (ALS) department offers a variety of resources and accommodations designed to help students with disabilities overcome barriers and succeed in their academic journey. We recognize the unique challenges international students may face and are here to support you. 

We ensure that both domestic and international students have equal access to ALS services. Our accommodations and assistive technologies are available to any student who require them. Connecting with ALS is confidential and will not affect your academic standing, funding, or completion of your program. 

Services Offered: 

Academic Accommodations: Personalized accommodations such as extended test time, alternative formats for textbooks, and other resources tailored to your specific needs. 

Assistive Technology: Access to a range of tools and software, including screen readers, speech-to-text programs, and more to enhance your learning experience. 

Learning Strategies: Develop essential skills such as time management, note-taking, and exam preparation to boost your academic performance. 

Workshops and Training: Join workshops that focus on improving study skills, using assistive technologies, and managing academic challenges effectively. 

Important Information for International Students: 

  • Confidentiality: Your use of ALS services is confidential. Your personal information is not shared with other departments at Seneca without your consent.  

  • Disability Documentation Required: As part of the ALS registration process, you are asked to submit medical/disability documentation. ALS services are available only to students with functional limitations related to a disability and are not intended to address general language barriers, work/family obligations or non-disability-related academic challenges. 

  • Equal Access for Domestic and International Students: Both domestic and international students have equal access to ALS services. 

  • No Accommodations for Language Barriers: Language difficulties are not considered a disability under ALS policies, as such, we do not provide accommodations for language barriers. If you require additional language support, please contact other services available at Seneca, such as English language support or tutoring services through the Learning Centre. 

  • Traveling Home for Family Emergencies: ALS is not a pathway to request academic accommodations for personal circumstances like family emergencies or travel. Students who need assistance with such matters should reach out to their professors or their International Advisor. 

  • Remote Learning: ALS does not facilitate remote learning for students without disability documentation. If you require remote learning accommodations due to an extenuating circumstance related to a disability, you must provide appropriate documentation. Remote learning accommodations will be considered on a case-by-case basis, based on your specific needs, the documentation provided, and the learning outcomes of your program

FAQs for International Students 

1. Can I access ALS if I have difficulty with language but not a disability? 
ALS services are available only for students with documented disabilities. We do not provide language support for general language barriers. If you need help with English-language comprehension or communication, please explore Seneca’s other language support services. 

2. Do I need to provide disability documentation to use ALS? 
Yes, to access ALS services, you will need to provide appropriate documentation of your disability. Without this documentation, we cannot provide permanent accommodations. We may be able to put interim accommodations in place on a temporary basis while you’re awaiting a diagnosis/documentation.  Check out our New Students page for more information on registration and documentation. 

3. Is there a cost for ALS services? 
No, ALS services are free. This includes your accommodations and exploring free assistive technology options.  

4. Can ALS help me with family emergencies or travel? 
ALS does not provide accommodations for personal matters such as family emergencies or travel. For assistance with these issues, please contact your professors and your International Advisor. They may refer you to Counselling Services to access a Student Wellbeing Specialist for emotional support and considerations. If the request is due to political instability, please connect with a Student Navigator. 

5. How do I request accommodations for exams or assignments? 
Please see the Student Accommodation Guide for details related to testing and assignment accommodations.  

6. What assistive technologies are available for international students? 
We offer a range of assistive technologies to all Seneca students, such as screen readers, speech-to-text software, and digital note-taking tools, designed to support your learning. 

At Seneca Polytechnic, we are committed to ensuring that all students, whether domestic or international, have equal access to the resources and supports to assist you in setting yourself up for success. Accessible Learning Services is here to provide you with the necessary accommodations and tools to help you academically. Reach out today to learn how we can assist you on your educational journey! 

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