Neurodivergency Support in College
Support for a Learning Disability (“LD”) can vary widely amongst colleges, and the laws governing accommodations in K to 12 are different than those for college. I’d like to focus on the basics of LDs in college, how support varies, and things for students and families to think about as they search for colleges and the services they offer.
The IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) covers students from age 3 to 21 and is designed to ensure public schools serve the educational needs of students with disabilities. This includes any testing when necessary.
The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) covers all ages, and while it does require “reasonable” accommodations at no cost to the student, the specifics are not prescribed, nor is there a requirement to provide testing to identify a disability.
Support Levels at Colleges Differ
Support varies from minimal, no cost services all the way to comprehensive fee-based programs. Students and their families will need to research and determine what type of college and program is best for their needs.
No Cost Programs
These may include minimal or several accommodations, and there may or may not be professionals on staff. Students may have to self-advocate, or there may be some advocacy. Tutors may be peers or professionals, and help may be by appointment or on a drop-in basis.
Fee-Based Programs
These tend to be fully comprehensive programs with a full time program director and multiple staff members who may be involved in the student’s admissions process and advocate on behalf of the student. Professional tutors are the norm and there are likely to be specialized programs or workshops for things such as organizational skills, time management and social skills.
As an example, here’s a link to University of Denver’s Learning Effectiveness Program, which has a fully comprehensive program at a cost of $4,500 per academic year in 2022-2023. Another approach is offered by University of Connecticut’s Beyond Access Program, which offers a tiered program depending upon what level of support a student may need. It ranges from $1,800 to $3,600 per semester for the 2022-2023 academic year.
What to Know When Seeking Support at College
There are big changes when students leave high school and embark on a college path, so there are many things to understand and consider as you evaluate schools and programs. Here are a few things to think about:
College days are much less structured - high schoolers spend about 7 hours per day in class whereas college students may attend class 0 - 5 hours per day.
College students must be able to manage themselves (waking up, taking medications, staying on top of assignments, getting materials if they miss a class) whereas high school students often receive a lot of support from parents, teachers and counselors.
Assignments in college can be more complex and require solid planning and time management skills.
Students must self-advocate and reach out for help - in high school, parents and other adults help look out for them.
Students must give permission for the college to communicate with parents.
Most importantly, make sure the services available meet the actual need.
Sources and Resources for More Information: