Stay in touch with your DSP Specialist

You can communicate with your DSP Specialist by e-mail or you can make an appointment; call (510) 642-0518, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. You can also "drop in" to see your Specialist. The Reception Desk will give you a list of DSP Specialists' drop-in hours.

Request accommodation letters

  • Early in the term (or even before it begins) go online (dsp.berkeley.edu) to request your accommodation letters.
  • Meet with your instructors during their office hours to discuss your accommodations and other disability-related needs. Bring hard copies of your accommodation letters to them.
  • Check with instructors at least a week before exams to be sure that accommodations will be provided.
  • Check with instructors before the Proctoring Center deadlines to be sure that accommodations will be provided.
  • Consult your DSP Specialist immediately if you experience any problems with your accommodations.

Request auxiliary services

When you apply for your accommodation letters, don't forget to request needed auxiliary services that have been authorized for you. Use your note-takers, lab assistants, and other auxiliary services throughout the semester. Let us know if you have trouble finding an auxiliary services provider; we have a special student assistant who will help you.

Request a reduced course load

If you need to take fewer courses for disability-related reasons, you can request a “reduced course load letter.” Take the letter to your college advisor. If you are receiving financial aid, ask your Specialist to notify the Financial Aid Office about your reduced course load status.

Explore assistive technology

The term "assistive technology" refers to ways of using technology (computer hardware and software, and other devices) to offset the effects of disabilities. DSP's Assistive Technology Specialist, can assess your assistive technology needs. She will demonstrate the hardware and software in the Assistive Technology Center. She can also make recommendations about your purchase or adaptation of computer equipment for your private use.

Discuss your financial aid needs with the DSP/TRIO financial aid specialist

You may be eligible for disability-related funding, extension of semesters to receive financial aid, TRIO grant-in-aid for Pell grant recipients, or support from the Department of Rehabilitation.

Check dates for finals

When scheduling your classes be sure to check the time and date of the final exam for that class. In doing so this could help alert you to possible scheduling problems such as two finals either on the same day or consecutive days.

Maintain your mental and physical health

Your mental and physical health are important and have a direct impact on your academics. Please use the resources that UC Berkeley has to offer — University Health Services or Counseling and Psychological Services.