Need an Emotional Support Animal (ESA) in college housing? You might need a support letter. This letter explains your need for an ESA. It helps you live comfortably and focus on your studies. Colleges often require this letter to approve an ESA.
Writing this letter can feel daunting. Finding the right words is key. We’re here to help simplify the process.
We provide letter samples and templates. These will guide you in writing your own. Use our resources to create a strong and effective ESA letter.
Sample Letter To Support Emotional Support Animal For College Housing
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip Code]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
Housing Department
[University Name]
[University Address]
[University City, State, Zip Code]
Subject: Emotional Support Animal Accommodation Request for [Student’s Name]
To Whom It May Concern:
I am writing to support [Student’s Name]’s request to have their emotional support animal (ESA), [Animal’s Name], reside with them in university housing. I am [Your Profession – e.g., a licensed therapist, a physician, a psychiatrist] and have been treating [Student’s Name] since [Start Date].
[Student’s Name] has a verifiable disability, specifically [General description of student’s mental health condition – e.g., anxiety disorder, depression]. This condition substantially limits one or more of their major life activities.
An emotional support animal is a crucial part of [Student’s Name]’s treatment plan. [Animal’s Name] provides comfort and support that alleviates symptoms of [Student’s Name]’s disability. The animal’s presence helps to reduce anxiety, improve mood, and promote a sense of stability. Without [Animal’s Name], [Student’s Name]’s ability to function and succeed in a college environment would be significantly compromised.
I believe that allowing [Student’s Name] to keep [Animal’s Name] in university housing is a reasonable accommodation that will enable them to fully participate in their academic pursuits and maintain their overall well-being.
Please feel free to contact me if you require any further information or clarification.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
How to Write Sample Letter To Support Emotional Support Animal For College Housing
1. Subject Line: Clarity is Paramount
The subject line of your letter is the initial touchpoint. It needs to be succinct and unambiguously state the purpose of the correspondence. Avoid vagueness; aim for precision.
- Example: “ESA Accommodation Request – [Student Name] – ID [Student ID]”
2. Salutation: Start with Respect
Begin your letter with a formal salutation. Demonstrate deference and professionalism right from the outset.
- Use “Dear [Housing Director/Relevant Authority],”
- If the name is unknown, “To Whom It May Concern:” is permissible, albeit less personalized.
3. Introduction: Laying the Groundwork
The introductory paragraph should immediately establish the letter’s intent. Clearly articulate that you are requesting an accommodation for an emotional support animal (ESA).
- State the student’s name and their intention to reside in college housing with their ESA.
- Briefly mention the diagnosed disability necessitating the ESA’s presence.
4. Body Paragraphs: Substantiating the Claim
This section is the crux of your letter. Provide compelling details, ensuring all information is germane and presented with perspicacity.
- Describe the diagnosed disability and its impact on the student’s daily functioning.
- Explain how the ESA mitigates the symptoms of the disability, offering tangible examples.
- Specify the ESA’s breed, size, and any relevant training or temperament certifications.
- Affirm the student’s commitment to adhering to all university policies regarding ESA ownership.
5. Medical Documentation: Corroborating Evidence
Include a statement asserting that accompanying medical documentation from a licensed healthcare professional lends credence to the need for an ESA.
- State: “Attached you will find documentation from [Doctor’s Name/Institution] substantiating the student’s need for an emotional support animal.”
6. Addressing Potential Concerns: Preemptive Mitigation
Acknowledge potential trepidations regarding ESAs in communal living environments and offer reassurance.
- Reiterate the ESA’s well-behaved nature and the student’s responsibility for its conduct.
- Offer to provide additional information or documentation as needed.
7. Closing: Gratitude and Contact Information
Conclude the letter with a gracious closing and provide contact information for further dialogue.
- Express gratitude for their time and consideration.
- Include the student’s phone number and email address.
- Use a formal closing such as “Sincerely,” or “Respectfully,” followed by the sender’s name and credentials (e.g., Licensed Therapist, MD).
Frequently Asked Questions: ESA Support Letter for College Housing
Navigating the process of obtaining approval for an Emotional Support Animal (ESA) in college housing can be complex. This FAQ addresses common questions to help you understand the requirements and procedures involved.
What is an Emotional Support Animal (ESA)?
An Emotional Support Animal is an animal that provides therapeutic benefit to an individual with a mental or emotional disability. Unlike service animals, ESAs are not specifically trained to perform tasks.
Who can write an ESA support letter?
A licensed mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), or licensed professional counselor (LPC), can write an ESA support letter.
What information should be included in an ESA support letter?
The letter should state that you have a diagnosed mental or emotional disability, explain how the ESA alleviates symptoms of your disability, and confirm that you are under their professional care.
Is my college required to accept an ESA support letter?
Under the Fair Housing Act (FHA), colleges are generally required to make reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities, including allowing ESAs in housing, provided the request is properly documented.
What if my ESA request is denied?
If your request is denied, you may want to consult with a disability rights organization or an attorney specializing in housing law to understand your rights and explore possible next steps.
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