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Student Support

Accessibility Services

Overview About How to Access Support Forms & Resources Our Team
Getting Started

What this page helps you do

Learn what Accessibility Services is, what documentation may be needed, how to request support, and where to connect with your campus coordinator.

Understand your options

See the kinds of accommodations, resources, and learning supports available through CNA.

Prepare your documentation

Review the documentation guidance and forms needed to help us recommend appropriate supports.

Connect early

Reach out to your campus Accessibility Services Coordinator as early as possible so supports can be planned in time.

What is Accessibility Services

Accessibility Services at College of the North Atlantic supports students who experience barriers to learning because of a disability, medical or mental health condition, or other documented need. Our team works with you to understand your situation, review documentation, and identify the academic accommodations and supports that will help you fully participate in your program.

Services may include exam accommodations, assistive technology, note-taking or alternative-format materials, and strategies for managing coursework. We also collaborate with instructors and campus staff to ensure that accommodations are implemented appropriately without changing program outcomes.

If you have a long-term condition, a recent diagnosis, or even a temporary injury that affects your learning, you are encouraged to connect with Accessibility Services early. We are here to help you reduce barriers, develop confidence, and succeed in your studies at CNA.

Watch CNA

CNA Shorts

Quick highlights, student stories, and snapshots focused on accessibility, student support, and inclusive learning at CNA.

Read & Write Software

We recommend a software program and browser extension called Read & Write that helps students reach their full academic potential by supporting everyday tasks such as reading text out loud, understanding unfamiliar words, researching assignments, and proofreading written work.

This requires a little self-discipline, but is a crucial skill for academic success.

Try Read & Write View Features

Transitioning to College

Transitioning to college is an exciting milestone, but it can also bring new expectations and a faster pace than high school. Understanding your learning style, strengths, and needs - and being aware of the supports available � can make the transition smoother and help you feel more prepared. Many students find that updating their study habits, becoming more independent, and planning ahead are key to adapting successfully.

College academics may require different strategies than what worked before. Staying organized, managing your time, and reaching out early for support can make a meaningful difference. Services like Accessibility and Counselling can provide guidance, accommodations, and academic or personal support when needed.

Helpful reminders for new students:
  • Attend classes regularly and stay engaged
  • Keep track of assignments and deadlines
  • Ask for help early - don't wait until you feel overwhelmed
  • Use support services to build confidence and develop new skills

2024 Accessibility Plan

College of the North Atlantic's Accessibility Plan outlines our ongoing commitment to inclusion and equal access. We work to remove barriers and ensure every student can fully participate in academic life and the college community.

View 2024 Accessibility Plan (PDF)

Steps to Access Accessibility Support

College of the North Atlantic is committed to helping you access the accommodations and supports you need. Follow these steps to connect with Accessibility Services.

1

Choose a Program

Learn about your program's requirements and how your disability may affect your learning. High school students can speak with a guidance counsellor; others can contact an Accessibility Services Coordinator to arrange a campus visit. Review admission requirements and any industry standards related to your field.

2

Apply

If you meet entrance requirements, your application is processed normally. If you identify a disability, an Accessibility Services Coordinator will contact you. If you do not meet requirements, Admissions will review your file to see if your disability is related, which may qualify you for Special Admissions or the CAS Transition Program. Early disclosure is optional but helpful.

3

Provide Documentation

Submit current documentation from a qualified professional to confirm your disability and outline how it affects your learning. Documentation should describe your functional impact and recommended accommodations. You may also include a Transition Plan, ROA, or IEP. Alternative documentation may be accepted on a case-by-case basis.

Disability Documentation Required
Acquired Brain Injury A report or CNA Verification of Eligibility Form completed by an appropriate healthcare provider.
Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) A letter or CNA form completed by a physician, psychiatrist, or psychologist.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) A letter or CNA form from a physician, psychiatrist, or psychologist. A recent assessment is helpful.
Blindness / Visual Impairment A letter or CNA form from an optometrist or ophthalmologist.
Deaf / Hearing Impairment A report or CNA form from an audiologist or physician.
Intellectual Disability A recent assessment completed by a registered psychologist or guidance counsellor.
Medical Condition A letter or CNA form completed by a physician.
Mental Health A letter or report from a psychiatrist, psychologist, or physician.
Mobility / Physical Disability A report from a healthcare professional outlining diagnosis and functional limitations.
Learning Disability A comprehensive assessment from a psychologist or guidance counsellor (within 5 years).
Speech / Language Disorder An assessment by a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP).
4

Pre-Entry Interview

Your Accessibility Services Coordinator will meet with you to review your documentation, discuss accommodations, and explore funding options.

5

Disclosure

You will sign a consent form indicating who can access information about your accommodations. Only necessary details are shared, and your privacy is always respected.

Contact your campus Accessibility Services Coordinator early - early planning ensures your accommodations are ready when you start college.

Disclosing a Disability

If you did not disclose a disability on your application, you can still do so after enrolling by meeting with the Accessibility Services Coordinator. Below are answers to common questions about identifying a disability.

As a college student, we will not know about your disability unless you tell us. By disclosing, you can access accommodations designed to support your success. You may also qualify for specific grants and scholarships. Early disclosure helps us connect you with available resources.

The first opportunity is on the college application form. If you indicate you have a disability, Accessibility Services will follow up with you to discuss supports.

If you did not disclose on your application, you can do so anytime by contacting your campus Accessibility Services Coordinator (ASC). Because some accommodations take time to arrange, it's best to speak with the ASC as early as possible.

You'll need current documentation verifying your disability. Students with learning disabilities should have a recent psycho-educational assessment. For other disabilities, a qualified medical professional must complete the Verification of Eligibility form (103 KB).

If applying for a Canada Student Loan, you'll also need their verification form to access grants. We'll accept a copy for college purposes, so remember to make one before submitting.

The Accessibility Services Coordinator will review your documentation and determine appropriate accommodations for college. While services may look different, equivalent supports are available, such as assistive technology replacing a reader or scribe.

By disclosing early, you'll have time to become familiar with how college accommodations work before classes begin.

Forms & Resources

Forms

Resourses

Our Accessibility Services Coordinators

Bay St. George Campus

Paula Gillis–Accessibility Services Co – ord
709/643-7793

Bonavista Campus

Dawn Brushett–Accessibility Services Co – ord
709/891-5612

Burin Campus

Dawn Brushett–Accessibility Services Co – ord
709/891-5612

Carbonear Campus

Joanne Mullins–Accessibility Services Co – ord
709/595-3429

Clarenville Campus

Dawn Brushett–Accessibility Services Co – ord
709/891-5612

Corner Brook Campus

Stephanie Cashin–Accessibility Services Co – ord
709/637-8585

Gander Campus

Ivan Ledrew–Accessibility Services Co – ord
709/292-5658

Grand Falls - Windsor Campus

Ivan Ledrew–Accessibility Services Co – ord
709/292-5658

Happy Valley-Goose Bay Campus

BettyAnn Knight – Brake–Accessibility Services Co – ord
709/207-1340

Labrador West Campus

BettyAnn Knight – Brake–Accessibility Services Co – ord
709/207-1340

Placentia Campus

Dodie Blanche–Accessibility Services Co – ord
709/227-6273

Port aux Basques Campus

Paula Gillis–Accessibility Services Co – ord
709/643-7793

Prince Philip Drive Campus

Charlotte Reardon–Accessibility Services Co – ord
709/793-3108

Colleen Hickey–Accessibility Services Co – ord
709/758-7213

Ted Power–Accessibility Services Co – ord
709/758-7368

Ridge Road Campus

Colleen Hickey–Accessibility Services Co – ord
709/758-7213

Seal Cove Campus

Colleen Hickey–Accessibility Services Co – ord
709/758-7213

St. Anthony Campus

Stephanie Cashin–Accessibility Services Co – ord
709/637-8585

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