Creating Accessible Content: Forms

Forms should be easy for everyone to use. Clear labels, helpful instructions and accessible error messages support assistive technologies and improve usability for all users.

When forms are designed with accessibility in mind, they are easier to understand, complete and submit across a range of devices and technologies.

Roles and Responsibilities

Anyone who creates, edits or distributes forms for instruction, communication, marketing or other university purposes is responsible for helping ensure those forms are accessible.

Accessibility Standards

All forms should align with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 Level AA and support the requirements of Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

How to Get Started

Use the following best practices to help ensure forms are accessible to all users.

• Clear labels: Every form field must have a visible, descriptive label that clearly identifies what information is required.
• Instructions: Provide clear instructions at the beginning of the form and near complex or required fields.
• Error messages: Use clear, specific error messages that explain what went wrong and how to fix it. Do not rely on color alone to indicate errors.
• Programmatic associations: Ensure labels, instructions and error messages are properly associated with their corresponding fields so assistive technologies can interpret them.
• Dynamic updates: Ensure that changes such as validation messages or updates are announced to assistive technologies when possible.
• Logical order: Use a clear and logical tab and reading order that matches the visual layout of the form.

Accessibility Tools

For testing and evaluation, tools such as the WAVE Web Accessibility Evaluation Tool can help identify accessibility issues in web-based forms.

Microsoft Forms

Microsoft Forms supports accessibility features such as keyboard navigation, screen reader compatibility, and clear form structure. ITS Knowledge Article - MS Forms.

SurveyMonkey

SurveyMonkey supports accessibility features by enabling surveys to be completed using screen magnifiers, screen readers with text-to-speech, voice recognition software, and without requiring a mouse or keyboard. ITS Knowledge Article - SurveyMonkey.

Dynamic Forms

Dynamic Forms is used for more complex workflows and form processes. Accessibility depends on proper configuration of fields, labels, instructions and validation. ITS Service Page - Dynamic Forms.

Training and Resources

• W3C Forms Tutorial
• WebAIM: Creating Accessible Forms
• Microsoft Forms Help & Learning
• SurveyMonkey Accessibility

Get Help

To request training or learn more about available opportunities, contact the appropriate area:

• Academic content:  Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning (CETL) 
• Website, social and university communication content: Web Operations
• Instructional technology, supported tools and software: Information Technology and Support Services