DeafPlus - DeafBlind FAQs for Students

• Depending on others to feel safe and informed
• Learning and using communication strategies
• Becoming aware of and navigating their surroundings
• Finding social, living and employment situations that fit their individual talents, needs and aspirations
• Overcoming barriers that complicate their interactions with non DeafBlind people

No. It is common for people who are DeafBlind to have partial hearing and/or vision.

No, RIT does not offer SSP services, however, students interested in this service can contact community agencies in Rochester. One community agency that offers SSP services is The Center for Disability Rights (CDR) in Rochester, N.Y. CDR is not affiliated with RIT and the college does not make any representation as to the quality or accuracy of the services provided. You are encouraged to communicate with several community agencies that offer SSP services before making a decision and choosing an agency that is right for you.

Yes, RIT/NTID has an optometrist and low-vision specialist who comes on campus every semester. For referral/appointments, call the Audiology Center at 585-475-6473 (V) or stop by in person (LBJ-3130) and make an appointment. The doctor can provide vision services and follow up. Learn more about the eye clinic

DBSC is a group of NTID professionals who work together to provide information on resources and support for DeafBlind students on campus. Learn who they are

To request more information about services for Deafblind students on campus, please contact DBSC at deafblind@rit.edu.

Yes! You can learn more about library resources on the RIT Libraries website.

Current or incoming RIT students with disabilities should fill out the Disability Services application for accommodations. Please note, you must have an RIT username to apply for accommodations. 

Prospective students considering RIT who have not yet been admitted, or admitted students who do not have an RIT email account yet, can request information about Disability Services.

To align with the RIT housing selection and assignment process, housing-related accommodation requests should be submitted as early as possible. Please bear in mind that student housing is a finite resource, and assignments will depend on availability. 

Note: Students requesting housing accommodations with the Disability Services Office must also submit a housing contract to RIT Housing Operations.

The Accessible Van Service (AVS) provides convenient, scheduled service to those who have disabilities or medical conditions that limit mobility. Students must be approved for the accommodation to use the Accessible Van Service by the Disability Services Office. It’s important to note that both students who use mobility devices and others with access needs who don’t use a mobility device are welcome to request the AVS as an accommodation. Academic requests (transportation to and from class) will take precedence over other transportation requests.
 
The AVS only provides transportation to and from locations on the RIT campus on days when classes are scheduled. The earliest reservation time is 7 a.m., and the latest drop off time is 9 p.m. Riders should be on time for their scheduled pick-ups and drop-offs, as drivers will wait no longer than 5 minutes before moving on to their next stop. Only those approved to ride the AVS may board the vehicle, with the exception of nurses or personal aides, who are always welcome to accompany the student they support. 
 
The AVS includes space and equipment to lock down mobility devices securely, which drivers can assist passengers with. 
 
To request this accommodation, students must first download the Tripshot app and create an account using their “@rit.edu” email address. It is recommended that students enable push notifications from Tripshot to receive alerts when their driver is on the way. Then, they should fill out the Accessible Van Schedule Form and indicate the days and times when pickup and drop-off are needed. The completed form should be emailed to Joel Mazeika, the RIT Transportation Services Manager, at jrmcps@rit.edu. If students need to change their scheduled pick-up and drop-off times, they should submit a new Accessible Van Schedule Form.

If you require help during a fire alarm, please contact the RIT Disability Services Office to talk about your needs ahead of time to develop a plan. After you have discussed this with the RIT Disability Services and have received approval, it is recommended that you share the plan with your Dorm Residence Coordinator, or Apartment Area Director, and your resident advisor (RA). If during a fire alarm or emergency situation, you need assistance, contact RIT Public Safety at 585-205-8333 (text) or 585-475-3333. (voice)