Supporting Students with Learning Differences: What I’ve Learned & How It Shapes My Work
Few people know I’ve been quietly plugging away at a Certificate in Independent Educational Consulting through the University of California Irvine. This session I just wrapped up a course called Working with Students with Learning Differences!
Over the past several weeks, I’ve deepened my understanding of how the college search process can be different for students with learning differences. It has also given me new insights into how to support them as they transition from high school to college and navigate accommodations, self-advocacy, and academic resources in a new environment.
As I reflect on what I’ve learned, a few key themes stand out:
1. Everyone is different
This probably feels like a given, but seriously, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Even students with the same diagnosis—whether it’s ADHD, dyslexia, autism spectrum disorder, or processing disorders—have vastly different strengths and needs.
Because of this, self-awareness and self-advocacy are essential. Helping students understand how they learn best, what accommodations allow them to thrive, and how to communicate those needs will be crucial in college.
2. Planning Ahead Makes a Big Difference
Students with learning differences often need more time to plan and prepare for college. Here’s how families can set their students up for success:
Identify needed accommodations early in high school.
Understand that IEPs and 504 Plans don’t automatically transfer to college—students will need to request accommodations themselves.
Research colleges with strong learning support programs before applying.
Many families don’t realize that college accommodations aren’t guaranteed—students must proactively request them. Knowing what documentation is required and how to navigate the process can help prevent unnecessary stress when the semester begins.
3. Finding the Right College Fit Matters More Than Ever
While every student should consider academics, campus culture, and cost when choosing a college, students with learning differences should take extra steps to ensure a supportive environment.
Before committing to a school, it’s important to ask:
Does the school offer structured learning support programs?
Are professors trained in working with neurodiverse students?
What assistive technology and tutoring options are available?
Some colleges go above and beyond in providing dedicated resources, while others may have only minimal support. The right fit can make a huge difference in a student’s success and confidence.
4. Self-Advocacy is a Must-Have Skill
One of the biggest adjustments from high school to college is that students must take the lead in advocating for themselves. Parents step back, and students are responsible for:
Requesting accommodations (extra time on exams, assistive technology, etc.).
Seeking out tutoring or academic support services.
Managing their own schedules and workload.
The more students practice self-advocacy in high school, the smoother the transition will be. Encouraging teens to communicate with teachers, attend meetings about their accommodations, and take charge of their learning experience will help them develop the independence they’ll need in college.
How This Will Shape My Work Moving Forward
This course has given me a deeper understanding of how to support students with learning differences as they navigate the college process. Moving forward, I’m looking forward to:
Helping families explore colleges that offer strong learning support services.
Guiding students through the process of requesting and using accommodations.
Encouraging self-advocacy so students feel confident and prepared for college life.
If you’re a student (or a parent of one!) wondering how to navigate the college process with a learning difference, I’d love to help. Finding the right college fit isn’t just about getting accepted—it’s about thriving once you get there.
