Overview of The Five Step College Search for Students with LD/ADHD

STEP 1

BE PREPARED

 

  • Student’s “team” must agree that the LD student is able to manage the various challenges presented by college; including awareness of the LD challenges and compensation skill. The student is ready!
  • Student’s IEP, 504 or Psych Eval must be no older than 3 years when applications are submitted; because academic services require a separate request/application process.
  • A student with LD will need to research college options thoroughly to understand the different levels of academic support offered by colleges. Students and their parents need to be realistic about what’s available in college.

STEP 2

Understand the Range of Support Services

Students and parents should be in agreement about which accommodations and assistive technologies were essential to the students’ success in high school; these will connect with the appropriate support program in college. See a more detailed list of program services here.

Minimal/Basic (No Additional $) - some highlights at this level of support include:

  • Very little accommodations offered; only compliance with federal law
  • Must be strong self-advocate
  • Some small colleges may be able to offer necessary personal attention

Moderate (No Additional $) - some highlights at this level of support include:

  •  Awareness of and sensitivity to LD, resulting in a range of possible accommodations
  • Academic Support Center (ASC) staffed by at least one certified learning professional
  • Possible involvement in admissions decision regarding potential success of applicant
  • Tutoring - peer or professional, assistance with EF and study skills by student request
  • Social support opportunities - support groups, workshops, coaching or mentoring
  • Specialized summer program or orientation (Additional Fee)

Comprehensive/Structured Programs (Additional $)

  • Separate application process required for program admission, including documented LD
  • Full-time program director, several staff members with degrees and certification
  • Possible involvement in college admissions process
  • Professional Tutors
  • Possible reduced course load or required or small class sizes
  • May require student to sign a contract agreeing to active participation
  • Social development - support, workshops, groups, coaching and mentoring
  • Specialized bridge programs and/or summer orientation program
  • EF and time management coaching
  • May meet 3-5 hours/week 1:1 or in small groups

* Credit to Bass Educational Services, LLC; Understood.org, K & W Guide to Colleges for Students with Learning Differences

STEP 3

Research Colleges for LD/ADHD Students

After years of acting as your child’s fiercest advocate, you know your child fairly well. But now that you’re starting a college search, do you know what kinds of things to be looking for in a school?

The three crucial components to researching which schools offer the best fit that families are:

  1. Asses goals, wants and need. Conduct extensive research.

  2. Use research tools that are designed for LD students and their families (see below).

  3. Students should make appointments for tours AND to meet the ASC or Disability Services Center.

Let your student take the lead in researching and investigating colleges. Hear an expert explain why your student should take the lead.

Before making a list of colleges that may be a good fit, keep several factors in mind. Your student should consider their own identity and where she/he envisions succeeding in college. Consider:

  • Location and setting
  • Size
  • Student lifestyle; social opportunities
  • Internship connections

Research Sources:

For students with LD, college visits are crucial; especially when classes are in session.

Your student should call or email to make appointments for several things him or herself.

The student should be prepared to describe any diagnosed LD, ADHD or processing issues.

In addition to the standard tours and appointments, for/allow time for:

  • Class visits
  • Faculty meetings
  • Admissions interviews
  • Appointments with Academic Support or Disability Services (note the location/setting for these offices, are they in their own facility or tucked away in a corner or basement?)
  • Lunch on campus

  • Parents have questions, but the student should be able to direct the conversation. Come prepared with a list of questions to help you understand the program itself. See a list of questions here.

STEP 4

Visit Colleges

  1. Immediately afterwards, write down your thoughts and impressions. Note anything in particular that stood out.
  2. Send a personalized thank you note to the people you met during your appointments.
  3. Sign on Admissions websites for emails/newsletters from schools you consider a “right fit”
  4. Create a calendar of all the schools deadlines for applications, both admissions and academic support or disability services, and all required supporting documentation
  5. Request a letter of recommendation from a teacher who knows you well as a student; someone who can describe your work ethic and commitment to success
  6. Submit your applications AHEAD of the deadlines
  7. Be open, honest and realistic about your colleges choices

STEP 5

After the Visits