I am a New/Transfer DHH Student

Welcome to Boston University! 

We’re excited to welcome you to the Boston University community. Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services (DHH) is here to help ensure you have equal access to all aspects of university life. Whether you’re attending classes, participating in student organizations, accessing campus services, living in university housing, or attending university-sponsored events and activities, our team is committed to supporting your full participation in the BU community. DHH coordinates communication access services to help ensure equal access both inside and outside the classroom.

Getting Started

Step 1: Register with Disability & Access Services

To receive accommodations, you must register with Disability & Access Services (DAS) and submit appropriate documentation of your disability. Once your registration is complete, please email DHHODS@bu.edu. A member of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services team will reach out to schedule an intake meeting, learn more about your communication preferences and access needs, and discuss accommodations that will support your success at Boston University.

Step 2: Meet with Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services

After registering, you’ll connect with our Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services team to discuss:

  • Communication preferences
  • Classroom accommodations
  • ASL interpreting services
  • CART (real-time captioning) services
  • Assistive listening technology
  • Housing-related accommodation needs
  • Access to classroom and course media
  • Questions about navigating BU as a Deaf or Hard of Hearing student

Step 3: Prepare for the Semester

Our team will work with you to coordinate approved accommodations before classes begin whenever possible. We encourage incoming students to connect with us as early as possible to allow adequate time for service planning and scheduling.

Available Accommodations

Depending on your individual needs, accommodations may include:

  • American Sign Language (ASL) Interpreting
  • Communication Access Realtime Translation (CART)
  • Captioned media and accessible course content
  • Assistive listening devices and technology
  • Note-taking support
  • Housing modifications
  • Other individualized accommodations as appropriate

Before Orientation

If you require ASL interpreting, CART, or other accommodations for orientation programs, placement testing, advising appointments, or other pre-semester activities, please contact DHH as early as possible so arrangements can be made.

Questions?

We understand that transitioning to a new university can feel overwhelming. Our team is happy to answer questions and help you navigate the accommodation process.

Contact Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services

Not sure whether you need to submit a request or have questions about accommodations? Please email DHHODS@bu.edu, and a member of our team will be happy to assist you.

We look forward to working with you and supporting your success at Boston University.