The definition of legal blindness is vision that can be corrected only to the acuity of 20/200 or higher. Another criterion is peripheral vision measuring 20 degrees or less. However, students not diagnosed as legally blind may be eligible and may need accommodations. Other vision issues to consider include but are not limited to tracking, extreme photosensitivity, nystagmus, eyelid muscle issues or low vision.
Any vision loss evaluation is in the medical domain and requires the expertise of a qualified licensed eye care professional.
Ask your health care providers to submit the following information to the Access Center. As an alternative, you may provide them with the Provider Verification Form (PDF). Documentation should show current impact of the disability.
Documentation should include:
- The date of most recent visit, the pathology of the eye disorder specific to the individual.
- A brief description of the severity of the vision loss, and current impact or limitations.
- Any medically relevant testing results.
- A description of assistive devices or services currently prescribed or in use, including the possible effectiveness of these devices or services in an educational setting.
- A description of the expected progression or stability of the vision loss over time.
Documentation should be from a qualified healthcare provider.