How do I make my video content accessible?

Creating accessible video content is an important part of meeting WCAG 2.1 AA standards and ensuring all users can understand and engage with your content. 

Here's a quick checklist for you to use to ensure your video content is accessible:

Required: Captions

• Include all dialogue and meaningful sounds
• Sync with audio
• Review auto-captions for accuracy

Recommended: Transcript

• Place below video
• Match captions
• Include speaker labels

When Needed: Audio Description

• Describe visuals not spoken
• Add to narration or transcript

Player Requirements

• Keyboard accessible
• Screen reader friendly
• Visible focus
• Captions toggle

Avoid Autoplay

• No autoplay with sound
• If autoplay, must be muted
• Provide pause/stop controls

Visual Accessibility

• High contrast text (4.5:1) 
  (Read our article on Text and background contrast requirements for GSU webpages for more details.)
• Readable fonts
• Avoid busy backgrounds

Controls & Usability

• Clearly labeled controls
• Keyboard accessible• Avoid icon-only buttons

Do Not Include

• Flashing content (>3 times/sec)
• Video as only source of information

Mobile Check

• Captions readable
• Controls visible
• No hidden overlays

Final Checklist

• Captions accurate
• Transcript included
• Visuals described
• Accessible player
• No autoplay with sound
• Readable text

If you need help with video accessibility, support is available on our Digital Accessibility Support Page.

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