What documentation is required by federal law for students seeking accommodations for learning disabilities?

Students seeking accommodations for learning disabilities are required by federal law to provide documentation proving a specific learning disability. This documentation serves to establish the presence of the disability and its impact on the student's ability to participate in educational programs. It is essential for verifying the need for specific accommodations, which can range from extended testing time to more individualized instructional methods.

The requirement for specific documentation is grounded in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, which highlight the importance of clear evidence of the disability in relation to educational performance. This ensures that accommodations are appropriately tailored to the individual needs of the student.

The other options provided do not fulfill this requirement. A personal statement may express a student's perception of their struggles but lacks the formal, objective evidence needed. Proof of enrollment, while necessary for attending a course, does not address the requirement for accommodation specific to a disability. A medical history report could contain relevant information but is not definitive proof of a specific learning disability and does not always offer the precise details required for educational accommodations.