To be eligible for Section 504 protections, what is required?

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act provides protections for individuals with disabilities, ensuring they have equal access to education. A key aspect of these protections is that a formal medical diagnosis is not necessary for a student to qualify. Instead, Section 504 defines a disability as a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities. This means that eligibility is based on the impact of the impairment rather than a specific label or diagnosis.

This is significant because it allows for a broader interpretation of disability, ensuring that students who may not have a medical diagnosis but still experience significant challenges or limitations can receive the accommodations they need. Consequently, the absence of a requirement for a medical diagnosis ensures that support can be provided based on observed needs rather than solely on formal medical evaluations. This inclusive approach promotes accessibility and equity in the educational environment.