Students with Learning Differences

Students who have an LD or some other type of difference that requires accommodations at the collegiate level will mostly go through the same application process as any other student and will simply apply for their accommodations after being admitted to the school.  The exception to this rule would be when someone is applying to a Learning Disabilities "Program" as defined below. It is important that students thoroughly evaluate their needs through discussions with their parents, counselor, and/or case manager if applicable.  This will help match you to the appropriate level of accommodations you may require.  You can find definitions and examples below:

Types of Support Services

Compliance Schools - Section 504 of the Americans with Disabilities Act requires that educational institutions provide appropriate accommodations to students who need them. This means that if according to their testing a student qualifies for extended time, preferred seating, or other accommodations the school must provide that accommodation, but may not provide much else.  They are simply complying with the letter of the law to give a student what they need.  All schools are, minimally, Compliance schools, as they must comply with the law. Others, however, go above above and beyond what is minimally required to support students with learning differences.  Students who simply need their accommodations and minimal or really no other assistance can be very successful in this type of environment.

Example: University of Illinois

Support Services - Schools that offer strong Support Services Programs offer accommodations like the Compliance schools but also offer additional supports for students that may need them. This could include access to learning specialists, tutoring, and courses designed to help students with time management, study skills, etc.  Note that these services are offered but not required. This type of school could be a good match for a student who needs a little extra academic support but is also a good self-advocate so will seek out help when they need it. 

Example: Bradley University

Programs - These are structured programs that offer the highest amount of support available at the college level. These are for-fee programs that offer professional tutoring, regular assistance from LD specialists, and require that students take advantage of what the program offers.  This level of support may be appropriate for someone who needs weekly tutoring and advising sessions and will benefit from the mandatory aspects of the program.  They often require a separate application, have a fee, and are limited as to the number of students they can accept. 

Example: University of Arizona SALT Program

CHOICES is a postsecondary planning night for students with learning differences who wish to continue their education after high school. It is run through the collaboration of a number of Chicago area high schools each year.  In addition to their annual college fair, they offer a website that is a great resource on the aforementioned options and what schools offer them, as well as presentations from many colleges and support programs across the country. Check out their website for more information.

CHOICES also offers a College Disability Programs and Support Services Guide with the name, contact information, and type of supports offered at colleges and universities  across the country.