How do ADHD students arrange accommodations in college?

PostedSeptember 28, 2025

UpdatedSeptember 28, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Avery Lombardi, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Securing ADHD college accommodations is entirely possible, but unlike in school, it’s up to the student to start the process and advocate for their own needs. Colleges and universities are required to provide reasonable support such as extended test time, note‑taking assistance, or quiet testing environments. The key is knowing where to begin and what to expect.

Step-by-Step Guide to Arranging Accommodations

Here’s a clear, step-by-step guide to setting up accommodations in higher education support;

Reach out to your college’s disability or accessibility office as soon as possible after enrolling. This is the first step in requesting accommodation.

You will need an up-to-date evaluation from a qualified professional confirming your ADHD diagnosis and how it affects your academic adjustments. A past IEP or 504 Plan may help but will not usually be accepted on its own.

Discuss the challenges you face and what accommodations you believe would help. Be specific about your needs, whether it’s more time for exams, access to lecture recordings, or help with organisation.

The office will work with you to design a personalised plan that supports your learning. Accommodation aims to provide equal access, not lower expectations.

You’ll receive a formal letter listing your accommodation, which you’ll share with your professors at the start of each term.

If something isn’t working or your needs change, contact the disability support office again. You have the right to request updates or appeal decisions.

Sample Accommodations You Can Request

Following requests can be made for accommodations for ADHD students;

Extra time on tests and assignments

Quiet or separate testing locations

Note-taking support or access to recorded lectures

Flexible deadlines or course scheduling

Use of planners, reminders, or assistive technology

In conclusion, ADHD college accommodation helps level the playing field so you can show what you know and succeed on your own terms.

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and expert guidance tailored to your unique situation.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Classroom accommodations for ADHD.

Avery Lombardi, MSc

Author

Avery Lombardi is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor’s in Psychology. She has professional experience in psychological assessment, evidence-based therapy, and research, working with both child and adult populations. Avery has provided clinical services in hospital, educational, and community settings, delivering interventions such as CBT, DBT, and tailored treatment plans for conditions including anxiety, depression, and developmental disorders. She has also contributed to research on self-stigma, self-esteem, and medication adherence in psychotic patients, and has created educational content on ADHD, treatment options, and daily coping strategies.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.