Applying to College with a Learning Disability

The first question for many parents and students alike is, “Do I, or don’t I reveal my LD to the college admissions office?”

The answer: YES!

Now, let me tell you how….

THE DISCUSSION

Your K-12 LD accommodations are governed by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (I.D.E.A. - for full text click here). This is legislation focused on the successful completion of high school graduation requirements. Your districts’ responsibility to meet the recommendations of your I.E.P. (Individualized Education Program) is regulated by this document.

While colleges do offer a wide array of accommodations for students with LDs, I.D.E.A. does not extend to higher education. College offices for learning disabled students are focused on students understanding and utilizing the entire scope of resources available to them. However, they are powerless to aid students unless students self-advocate for their needs first.

Therefore, a serious discussion must take place between you, your parents, and your school counselor concerning your progress through high school. Review your accommodations; which resources have you consistently used resulting in positive and successful work? Furthermore, which resources do you believe you need to continue that success at the next level, college? After having this conversation you are ready to speak in more detail to admissions counselors in regards to their college’s resources.

THE SEARCH

Notifying admissions of your LD provides those who review your application with a clearer picture of your academic experiences. After being accepted, some families release the students 504 Plan and achievement tests for review. After confirming with an institution, it is left to the college students to contact the LD office and requested accommodations. Examples of accommodations offered at many colleges are extended time, note takers, and read instructions/questions, to name a few.
Although resource rooms may not be an option, understanding your need for access to faculty members and other academic support services can be intricate to your search.

For example, at Siena where the average class size is 21, professors are readily accessible in class or during office hours. Siena offers students support at our Counseling Office, Tutoring Services, and our student-run Writing Center. These are universal services available to all students, but can be particularly helpful to students needing an encouraging mentor or extra help.