Understanding College Campus Accommodations for ADHD Students
Accommodations are adjustments in how information is presented, accessed, or evaluated to help students with ADHD perform to their full potential. These adjustments are meant to level the playing field, ensuring that students with ADHD can engage with their coursework effectively. Students with ADHD often benefit from accommodations designed to support their unique learning needs in a college setting. These accommodations are not about giving an advantage but ensuring an equal opportunity for academic success. If you're considering seeking accommodations for ADHD, here's a step-by-step guide to help you navigate this process effectively.
***If you're a female student with ADHD in Colorado seeking therapy, I encourage you to take the next step and schedule a free consultation.
Identifying Your Needs
Understanding your specific challenges is key to determining the right accommodations for you. Reflect on what worked for you in high school and consider the areas where you're currently struggling in college due to ADHD. This could involve issues with time management, focus during lectures, or exam anxiety.
Reflect on Past Accommodations (if applicable): Consider what accommodations worked for you in high school, such as extra time on tests, note-taking assistance, or preferential seating.
Assess Current Challenges: Identify areas where you're struggling in college due to ADHD, such as time management, focusing during lectures, note-taking, exam stress, learning differences, and sensory needs. Speaking with a trained ADHD therapist or psychologist can help in this process.
Common Accommodations for ADHD
Extended time for exams and assignments.
Distraction-free testing environment and study area.
Breaks during lectures or exams.
Use of a computer for written exams if handwriting is challenging.
Flexible deadlines or modified assignment expectations.
Note-taking assistance (e.g., recording lectures, access to lecture notes, request a personal note-taker)
Preferential seating in classrooms (e.g., away from distractions)
The use of fidget toys or stress balls.
Priority registration for classes for optimal learning times.
Use of assistive technologies (e.g., apps, software)
Access to audio textbooks for auditory learners.
Academic tutoring or study skills support
Access to counseling or coaching services
Seeking Accommodations: How It Works
The exact accommodation process will depend on your school (which I'm happy to review with you in session), but the process generally looks something like this:
Contact Disability Services at your college or university and schedule an appointment with an accommodation specialist (in-person, over the phone, or virtual).
Meet with a specialist to discuss your disability and the disability-related barriers that you encounter (or foresees encountering) in the school environment. You will then explore what accommodations are available. *This meeting may happen after the request for documentation depending on the school.
The accommodation specialist will share what documentation is required. Most schools will require documentation of your ADHD diagnosis, typically in the form of a letter from a licensed professional.
Obtain and submit required documentation to Disability Services for review.
You will choose which accommodations you’d like to use and for which course(s) or environment(s) you want to use it.
If approved, you'll receive a letter outlining your accommodations. You may choose to implement all, some, or none of the accommodations.
Present your letter to your professors at the beginning of each semester, or the accommodation specialist will contact the appropriate faculty or staff on your behalf to inform them of the need accommodations.
Faculty and staff will work to provide the needed accommodations.
Other Things to Note:
Accommodations are not retroactive and are only in place from the time they are approved moving forward.
Instructors cannot negotiate accommodations directly with the student. Any adjustments to an accommodation need to be discussed with the SDC.
Some accommodations may need to be adjusted throughout a student’s time in their degree program. For example, accommodations for lecture style classes will look different than accommodations for labs or internship/practicum.
Students who want to utilize their academic accommodations for future semesters will need to renew their accommodations each semester.
Overcoming Stigma & Reluctance
Many students with ADHD hesitate to request accommodations for various reasons:
They may fear standing out or being different from their peers.
Some may perceive accommodations as unfair or akin to cheating, believing it gives them an advantage they don't deserve.
There could be feelings of unworthiness or doubt about deserving the support.
They might be concerned about being labeled or stigmatized as someone with a disability.
The process of setting up accommodations can seem daunting and overwhelming.
It's important to understand that accommodations are not about gaining an unfair advantage. Instead, they are intended to level the playing field and ensure equal opportunities for academic success. Colleges and universities carefully vet and assess accommodation requests to ensure they are provided to students who genuinely require support due to learning challenges like ADHD. Seeking accommodations is a proactive step towards addressing individual needs and maximizing academic potential. It's about accessing the tools necessary to thrive in an educational environment tailored to diverse learning styles and needs.
Understand that seeking accommodations does not label you or provide an unfair advantage. These adjustments are intended to support your academic success. Seek assistance from a trusted individual or Disability Services staff member if you feel overwhelmed by the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about accommodations for students in college with ADHD often include:
Will asking for accommodations in college later hurt my career?
No, accommodations in college are confidential and do not impact future career opportunities. Employers are not typically informed about accommodations provided during college.
Can I get accommodations if I attend a private school?
Yes, private universities must comply with Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities in all areas, including education. Therefore, students attending private schools are eligible for accommodations.
What if I change my mind and decide I do want accommodations?
It's never too late to request accommodations. You can apply for accommodations at any point during your college career. Keep in mind that the review process may take some time, so it's advisable to initiate the request as soon as possible.
How can students with ADHD find on-campus support?
Students with ADHD can seek on-campus support by joining support groups or seeking resources offered by the Office for Disability Services or counseling centers. These resources provide a network of peers and professionals who understand their challenges and can offer guidance and assistance.
Remember, seeking accommodations is a proactive step towards academic success. These adjustments are intended to support your unique learning style and help you reach your full potential in college. Don't hesitate to utilize available resources and advocate for your needs as an ADHD student. By proactively seeking and utilizing accommodations, you can enhance your college experience and pave the way for future academic achievements.
If you're a female student with ADHD in Colorado seeking therapy, I encourage you to take the next step and schedule a free consultation.
Finding a therapist who understands your experiences with ADHD can provide invaluable support and guidance as you navigate challenges and work towards your goals. Together, we can explore strategies to enhance your confidence, overcome obstacles, and cultivate a sense of empowerment in your academic and personal life.