Fitness for Duty Exams for College Students

Q: My daughter suspended her college enrollment due to medical reasons but is ready to re-enroll. The school is asking for a letter from her physician stating that she is fit to begin school again. Is this discrimination?

A: While mostly applicable to employment, fitness for duty exams or inquiries are covered under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The college may apply a policy that looks to assure that students do not present a safety risk to themselves or others. The school must also weigh if a reasonable modification may reduce this risk. However, the policy cannot be used to single out specific groups or individuals.