Arranging supports in college

You may like or need to get some support when you start college.

You are also entitled to ‘reasonable accommodations’ – these are adjustments that enable you to participate in the academic assessment process on a fair basis.

Find out how to arrange appropriate support and reasonable accommodations that work for you.

Background

Reasonable accommodations allow you to fully participate in learning, assessment, university facilities and services.

To be eligible for reasonable accommodations you need to have had an official autism diagnosis (such as ASD or Asperger’s) and have told your university about your autism. An Disability Advisor from the Disability Support Service then meets with you and discusses your needs in a Needs Assessment. It is important that you are actively involved in this process, and also in making decisions regarding reasonable accommodations that work for you.

How could this affect me?

You may have received support in school and found it helpful – or perhaps you feel you no longer need support. Either way, we recommend that you register with the Disability Support Service (DSS). You may not need to use the support offered, but sometimes students realise they need support during stressful times such as exams- and it is far easier and quicker to get support if you are already registered with the DSS.

 

What to do next?

We strongly advise you register with the DSS (even if you don't think you need to) as then support can be put in place quickly if needed.

Practical tips

  • Make sure to really think about what reasonable accommodations would suit you, rather than taking them as they come – what works for you individually?
  • Reply promptly to all communications regarding your support and reasonable accommodations, to ensure support is put in place when it’s needed.
  • Ask questions if you don’t understand something – your advisor will be happy to explain anything you are unsure of.

Additional information and links

AHEAD have information on the types of reasonable accommodations that can be offered (this does not mean they will be offered to everyone): https://www.ahead.ie/supports