Alternative Format Materials

Alternative format accommodations take traditional print materials and ensure equitable access by converting to various formats, including but not limited to E-text, PDFs, Audio Books/MP3s, or Braille.  The Alternative Format Accommodation is based on an individualized, interactive process and depends on the nature and impact of symptoms on a case-by-case basis.  Preferred alternative formats are provided when possible.

Processing Alt Format requests involves several processes and various resources. Because of this, it is in the student's best interest to request their materials as far in advance of the term starting as possible. We generally ask that students give OSAS at least 2-4 weeks to complete the requests.

For students approved for this accommodation, please follow the steps outlined below or in the How to Request Alternative Format Textbooks handout when you are ready to request your alternative format materials.

Students are notified via email when materials are converted and are ready to access.  Materials are accessed through the Alternative Format section of MyOSAS, by clicking “download book.”

Available Alternative Formats

• Accessible PDF
• Bookshare
• Braille
• E-Pub
• Kurzweil (text-to-speech reader)
• Natural Reader (text-to-speech reader)
• Learning Ally
• Microsoft Word (Doc)
• MP3
• Other: should be discussed with the Assistive Technology/Alternative Format Specialist

Important note: If a professor assigns additional texts, handouts, or other materials that are not originally listed in the syllabus, students have options for converting these materials.

• Option 1: Convert the materials on your own by using SensusAccess (available on this website).
• Option 2: Request OSAS to convert the materials by requesting through MyOSAS. Please submit this request within the Alternative Format module under the Additional Book or Reading Materials.
• Option 3 (for Handouts): Email the handout as an attachment to osasAT@usc.edu and ask for your preferred format. Requests will be completed as quickly as possible and generally prioritized on a first-come-first-serve basis. Please allow OSAS sufficient time to convert the materials.

Google Drive for Textbooks: OSAS has transitioned to accessing your textbooks through Kurzweil 3000’s Google Drive option. This will allow you to take your textbooks with you on the go using any app that syncs with your Google Drive account. If you have not received your Google Drive Shared Folder, please contact osasAT@usc.edu to enable access to your textbook. For more information, please review the How to Use Google Drive for Textbooks handout for more information.

Please email the OSAS Alternative Format Services Coordinator for assistance with any questions or concerns at osasAT@usc.edu.