Convert Word/PPT into Accessible PDF using Export (Microsoft)

Contact the Accessible Media Coordinator

Robert Starr
Accessible Media Coordinator

Assistive Technology Initiative
MS: 6A11
Voice: 703-993-5644
Fax: 703-993-4743
rstarr@gmu.edu

Contact the IT Accessibility Coordinator

Kristine Neuber
IT Accessibility Coordinator

Assistive Technology Initiative
MS: 6A11
Voice: 703-993-9815
Fax: 703-993-4743
kneuber@gmu.edu

Have Assistive Technology Questions? Contact Us!

Jackie Servello
Assistive Technology Specialist

Assistive Technology Initiative
MS: 6A11
Voice: 703-993-4329
Fax: 703-993-4743
jservell@gmu.edu

Have questions? Contact the ATI:

Assistive Technology Initiative
MS: 6A11
Voice: 703-993-4329
Fax: 703-993-4743
ati@gmu.edu

Before converting, please follow the steps on this web page for creating an accessible Word document or PowerPoint presentation. The steps listed below will help you ensure that much of the work you did to make these resources accessible will carryover when the PDF is created.

To convert your existing Word document or PPT presentation into an accessible PDF, do the following:

  • Click File, then Export.
  • Click Create PDF/XPS Document.
  • Click Create PDF/XPS button.

  • In the Publish as PDF or XPS window, enter a File Name and then click the Options button.

  • In the Options dialog window, make sure the following options are selected:
    • Create bookmarks usingHeadings.
      • This selection automatically creates bookmarks in your PDF document using the heading styles that you have added in Word.
      • PLEASE NOTE: This option is not available when converting PPT presentations into accessible PDFs.
    • Document properties
      • This selection ensures that the document title and author information are carried over into your PDF document.
    • Document structure tags for accessibility
      • This selection ensures that any structural elements you created in your Word/PPT document (i.e., lists, headings, etc.) are tagged as such in your PDF document.