**What happened:** NPR reported this week that blind and low-vision students have accused some colleges of effectively blocking their access to courses by failing to provide accessible digital materials, timely Braille or audio versions of texts, and usable learning platforms. In response, U.S. education officials have proposed a rule intended to clarify and strengthen colleges' legal responsibilities to ensure equal access to instruction and instructional materials.
**Why it matters to students from Jordan and the Middle East:** Many Jordanian and regional students rely on U.S. universities for undergraduate or graduate study, scholarships, or exchange programs. Even those studying locally often use U.S.-based learning management systems, digital textbooks, or online courses that must be accessible. A tighter U.S. rule would raise expectations for accessibility in institutions that recruit international students and could make it easier for affected students to obtain remedial help or file complaints if they lose access.
**Practical steps for students:** If you have a visual impairment or support someone who does, act early. Contact the destination university's disability/accessibility office as soon as you intend to apply—ideally 6–8 weeks before classes start—to request information about accommodations and how to submit documentation. Ask specifically about electronic textbook formats, screen-reader compatibility, exam accommodations, and timelines for converting materials. Keep records of requests and responses, and retain medical or professional documentation that describes functional needs and recommended assistive technology.
**For students already enrolled or comparing offers:** Request a written accommodations plan or confirmation from the disability office before you accept an offer or sign housing agreements. If you encounter denial or delays, U.S.-based students can file complaints with the Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights; international students should also contact their university’s international student office and their home-country educational advisers. For students in Jordan, raise accessibility questions with university registrars and library services and check whether online platforms in use (Canvas, Blackboard, Coursera) meet accessibility standards.
**How Shatnawi Education can help:** Shatnawi For College Admissions And Academic Consultations can advise Jordanian applicants on which U.S. programs have established disability services, help prepare documentation and email templates for accommodation requests, and coordinate timelines so requests reach disability offices well before term starts. We can also guide currently enrolled students on escalation steps and documentation for official complaints.
Stay informed: the U.S. rule is at a proposal stage and may undergo public comment and revision. Monitor official Department of Education announcements and major news coverage. For individual guidance, contact Shatnawi via WhatsApp at +962791888699 or visit shatnawiedu.com for case-specific advice and application support.