The University at Buffalo is committed to ensuring access to UB's programs and activities. Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits recipients of federal funding from discriminating by failing to provide meaningful access to educational programs, activities and services for individuals with Limited English Proficiency (LEP). A person with LEP is an individual who does not speak English as their primary language and/or has limited ability to read, speak, write or understand English. 

Proficiency in the English language is a legitimate academic qualification or bona fide employment qualification for most of the university's academic programs and positions. There are times when UB's departments and programs must offer language assistance, including:

• UB programs and departments are offering services to the public, including LEP individuals;
• UB programs are serving K-12 students;
• University-affiliated clinics and health care programs must effectively communicate with clients and patients, in accordance with Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act; and
  
• Students or employees require additional language assistance in order to effectively participate in grievances or investigations. 

Individuals with Limited English Proficiency (LEP) in need of assistance in order to access the University’s educational programs, activities and services are invited to contact Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) to identify available resources related to language assistance.  

Programs and departments that provide services to the public may need to develop their own Language Access Plan in order to ensure equal access to their programs and activities. LEP.gov provides resources and assistance in developing a plan that is appropriate for each program.