Struggling in school because of a learning disability can be very discouraging, to say the least, and it isn't necessary. Bethel College is committed to serving our students who have learning disabilities, assisting them with necessary accommodations in the classroom so that they can “compete on a level playing field” with other students.
Typical accommodations include (but are not limited to):
- Extended time on tests;
- Private/Semi private environment for testing (in the ASO);
- Having tests read orally;
- Copies of Professors' lecture outlines, if available;
- Allowing tape recording of class lectures;
- Use of a calculator for math tests;
- Textbooks in electronic format. Please note you will need to provide receipts of purchase before electronic copies can be obtained. This process can take up to 5-6 weeks.
Qualifying for Accommodations
In order to qualify for these accommodations, you must provide us with current documentation of your learning disability. Documentation on file for disability accommodations must:
- clearly state the diagnosed disability or disabilities
- describe the functional limitations resulting from the disability or disabilities
- be current - i.e., completed within the last 3 years for LD, last 6 months for psychiatric disabilities, or last 3 years for ADHD and all other disabilities (NOTE: this requirement does not apply to physical or sensory disabilities of a permanent or unchanging nature)
- include complete educational, developmental, and medical history relevant to the disability for which testing accommodations are being requested
- include a list of all test instruments used in the evaluation report and relevant subtest scores used to document the stated disability (this requirement does not apply to physical or sensory disabilities of a permanent or unchanging nature)
- describe any recommended medications and/or behavioral treatment plans
- describe the specific accommodations requested
- adequately support each of the requested accommodation(s)
- be typed or printed on official letterhead and be signed by an evaluator qualified to make the diagnosis (include information about license or certification and area of specialization).
College will be different than high school for students with learning disabilities. You will need to be a self-advocate at this level—you must identify yourself to us and request the accommodations you need.
Don't struggle needlessly—we are here to help! Contact us early so that we may assist you.
