I was reading through a closed thread on Academic Support and wondering if it has any bearing on the admissions process - is a student with LD (ADHD for example) weighted any differently?
I don’t have any personal experience with this specific issue, but my strong supposition is that schools would assess: (1) whether the applicant will be able to succeed at the school–academically, socially, etc.; and (2) whether the school has the appropriate resources to support the applicant. I don’t think schools would weight the applicant differently, but the LD would be factored into the assessment I described above. My understanding from having gone through the application process and spent time on this board is that, when schools are making admissions decisions, schools sort applicants by whether they are full pay or need FA and whether they are U.S. or international. There isn’t a separate category for students with a LD.
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There are likely schools that seek this kind of student - a Hofstra, a Marist…it’s more money for them. Or a U of Arizona who has the pay for SALT Program.
Many schools likely just look at stats - but there are schools out there specific for this type of student, etc. Landmark, Curry.
Of course, most/all schools have support staffs - and I think more important than admissions, is talking to those support staffs to see if the school is right for you, beyond what you read about it regularly.
I think what you read is that some say not to disclose in essays, etc. because schools have a risk tolerance level - and want to avoid risk. And I think that’s a fair comment - although I’m sure every school sees things differently.
@ownmeasurement is correct – a student with an LD will be evaluated based on their ability to thrive at any school. It’s possible that the school may monitor the number of students who need academic support so they can be assured of meeting everyone’s needs. Believe it or not, schools really want every student to thrive.
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Are you asking about high school or college?
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oooh - good catch- the category is prep school. oops
Prep school.
I don’t think it’s weighed differently but do think the student has to demonstrate that they can do well at the school and be an attractive candidate despite their challenges.
I know a girl with ADHD and dyslexia who was a great student, athlete and musician but bombed on the SSAT. She’s going to Andover. Her school, which has a good relationship with PA, was 100% supportive of her candidacy and they and her essays demonstrated that she would be a fine addition to the school. It was only after being accepted that the discussion about accommodations came up. So I don’t think you’re put in a different pile.
So have a good folder, acknowledge the LD but don’t make it an excuse to be overcome, and make them want you.