Substance use can significantly impact your academic and personal life, as well as your overall well-being. Cornell University uses a comprehensive public health approach to prevent harm and reduce alcohol or other drug misuse among Cornell students and to support students who identify as being in recovery. All students deserve a supportive, inclusive learning and living environment where they feel safe accessing the resources they need.

If you identify as a student in recovery, you may be eligible for accommodations through Student Disability Services (SDS). SDS can facilitate accommodations for students with disabilities, including those related to substance use recovery, related conditions, or substance use treatment. There are a variety of academic and housing accommodations available. We will work with you to determine what accommodations may best fit your situation. This is determined on a case-by-case basis.    

Learn more about registering with our office. You do not need to be in treatment, in a 12-step, or in a harm reduction-based recovery program to be eligible for accommodations. 

Our process is:  

• Interactive: You’ll work collaboratively with a Disability Access Consultant to explore your access needs.  
• Confidential: Your privacy is our priority, especially when discussing sensitive disability and health-related concerns.  
• Supportive: We’re here to partner with you. Recovery looks different for everyone.  
• Individualized: We take a student-centered, individualized approach when reviewing accommodation requests.  

If you are not sure if you want to seek accommodations, you can still connect with us to learn how we may support you.  

Questions we may ask:  

• What are you currently struggling with?  
• What would help you access your education more equitably?  
• How can we partner to reduce barriers and support you?

Our role is to listen and work with you based on your individual needs and circumstances.  

We understand that substance use recovery is an ongoing process, and that relapses may occur. Accommodations and services are still available even if a relapse has occurred.  

Examples of Possible Accommodations  

Accommodations are determined on an individualized basis. These are just some potential accommodations that may apply. 

Academic:  

• Extended time for exams or assignments
• Modified attendance policies
• Note-taking assistance

When living on campus:  

• A single room  
• Housing in a building with air filtration  
• An Emotional Support Animal

Additional Support Services:  

• One-on-one meetings with a Disability Access Consultant  
• Disability Access Consultant attendance at instructor meetings (upon request)  
• Accommodations for co-occurring conditions (e.g., ADHD, anxiety, depression)  
• Consultation about a Health Leave of Absence
• Transportation support in getting around campus

Learn more about different accommodations and services.
  
We encourage you to connect with us for a discussion or to learn more.