Disability Resource Center

Financial Questions

Can I get a note taker for my classes? How is this paid for?
Students who are funded by VESID for note takers are able to hire note takers for minimum wage. All other students with disabilities who have been authorized to do so may bring a fellow classmate’s notes to DRC and use the copy machine free of charge on a regular basis.

Most students use classmates that volunteer to share notes, rather than paying a fellow student. There is no professional note taking service at the University, however professor’s note or outlines are becoming increasing available on the class web sites.

Does the DRC program pay for tutors? Personal care attendants? Does the university help locate personal care attendants?
TUTORS: Academic Support Services runs a tutor referral service for all students. The cost of the tutor is negotiated between the tutor and the tutee and is not paid for by the University unless financial need can be demonstrated. Occasionally students with Disabilities can apply to the DRC for a scholarship to assist with tutorial expenses.

PERSONAL CARE ATTENDENTS: The Disability Resource Center also collects applications for students who want to work as personal care attendants (PCA). The cost of the PCA is borne by VESID, Medicaid or the student’s own health insurance. It is NOT the responsibility of the University to pay for PCAs.

Is there any special financial assistance for students with disabilities?
The primary funding source for students with disabilities is their state rehabilitation agency. In NYS this is called VESID (Vocational, Educational Services for Individuals With Disabilities).

Here are web sites that may help with financial aide: