Accessible Web Forms

Accessible, ADA‑compliant web forms are essential to ensuring everyone can use a website effectively. Forms that aren’t designed with accessibility in mind can create barriers for users with disabilities. Following accessibility best practices helps ensure forms work with assistive technologies, such as screen readers, and meet ADA requirements.

Students, Employees

Website forms

Forms will be evaluated case by case to evaluate data being collected. 

• General non-private/sensitive data: Microsoft Forms
• Surveys of 50+ people: Institutional Research / Qualtrics (Survey Request)
• Private/sensitive data: ImageNow/Perceptive Content (Submit a "Request Help" ticket)

Form Building Best Practices:

• Labels: Every form field must have a programmatically associated label (using the <label> element with for and id attributes). Labels can typically be added from the form-builder interface in whatever form application you are using.
• Positioning: Labels should be to the left or top of inputs, and for checkboxes/radio buttons, to the right.
• Keyboard Accessibility: Users must be able to navigate and fill out all forms using only a keyboard, including submitting them.
• Error Handling: Errors must be clearly indicated, and instructions for fixing them should be provided. (e.g., highlighting the field with errors, such as required fields, valid email format, etc.)
• Color Contrast: Text and interactive elements must have a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 against the background. 
  • Use a contrast checker to verify compliance.
    • WebAim Color Contrast Checker (Best - browser-based)
    • TPGI Color Contrast Checker (Good - downloaded app)
• Autocomplete: Use autocomplete attributes to enhance usability and accessibility. (Allows the browser to pre-populate fields with saved user data, such as name, email, address, or phone number to reduce typing and memory load.)

• YouTube Resource:  Accessible Web Forms, Easy Usability Tips
• Accessible Web and Digital Documents Checklist