Ensuring digital accessibility requires compliance with established guidelines, standards, and policies at both institutional and regulatory levels. The following resources and best practices help ISU align with accessibility requirements.Includes information on the university’s established policies and guidelines for digital accessibility, aligned with WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) and Section 508. Also includes information about relevant laws, regulations, and university policies regarding digital accessibility.

 Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG)

The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) are the international standard for digital accessibility.

  • WCAG 2.1 AA is the most widely accepted standard for websites and digital content. It is what ISU needs to achieve compliance with.
  • Covers perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust (POUR) principles.
  • Ensures compatibility with assistive technologies like screen readers and voice navigation.

 Legal and Compliance Standards

Understanding legal requirements helps organizations meet compliance obligations.

  • Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) – Ensures digital content is accessible to individuals with disabilities.
  • Section 508 – Federal requirement for accessibility in electronic and information technology.
  • Rehabilitation Act of 1973 – Mandates equal access to digital resources.
  • DOJ Title II – Requires state and local governments, including public universities, to ensure digital accessibility compliance for public services and communications.
  • Iowa State University Accessibility Policy – Establishes ISU’s commitment to digital accessibility compliance and determines ISU digital content must meet WCAG 2.1 AA standards.

 Additional Training and Learning Resources