Arkansas Tech University is committed to allowing people with disabilities the use of a Service or Emotional Support Animal, as necessary, on campus to facilitate their full-participation in University’s programs and activities. Set forth below are specific requirements and guidelines concerning the appropriate use of and protocols associated with Service and Emotional Support Animals. Arkansas Tech University reserves the right to amend these policies as circumstances require.
IMPORTANT NOTICE: NEW ANIMAL POLICIES EFFECTIVE MAY 21, 2026
Please review the new ESA and Service Animal policies carefully. These significantly updated policies replace the 2024 Service and Assistance Animal Policy and introduce new rules and restrictions throughout each document. We strongly recommend giving particular attention to changes in the application process, documentation requirements, eligibility criteria, owner responsibilities, and renewal procedures to ensure that you and your animal meet the new criteria, and can maintain compliance with these policies. The approval process may take up to 30 days from the time all required documents are submitted before the deadline stated in the policy. Applications received after the application deadline will be held for consideration for the following semester.
Emotional Support Animal Policy (REVISED MAY 2026)
Service Animal Policy (REVISED MAY 2026)
The sections below represent a brief overview of the process for requesting approval for an ESA or Service Animal in Housing and are provided only as a quick reference. Please refer to the applicable animal policy (ESA or Service Animal) above for complete application and documentation requirements.
All students requesting to keep an Emotional Support Animal (ESA) or a Service Animal in University housing must apply by submitting a formal request through the Disability Services online application form linked below. Please refer to the applicable animal policy (ESA or Service Animal) for complete application and documentation requirements.
Deadlines for submitting new ESA applications (must include ALL required materials):
Late ESA requests will be considered for newly enrolled students or for students with newly identified needs on a case-by-case basis; however, there is no guarantee that the late request will be fully processed or implemented (if approved), during the current term.
Disability Documentation must:
Documentation must include:
Note: Online-purchased ESA letters alone are not sufficient documentation.
Animal Documentation:
Disability Services will review all materials and may request follow-up information or meetings. Staff will also assess the suitability of the animal for the living space.
If denied, students may appeal through the Disability Services Appeal Process. Denial does not release a student from housing requirements.
Processing Steps:
Once all steps are complete, students must visit the Office of Student Accounts with their approved ESA to obtain an official animal identification card.
Students approved to have an Emotional Support Animal (ESA) in University housing must complete the annual renewal process to maintain their accommodation.
To renew an ESA accommodation, students must submit: