Academic Life

Disclosing your Disability, Difference or Condition at College

Deciding whether to tell your university or college about your disability or difference is a personal choice. You are not required to disclose unless you want to, and any information you share is confidential. However, disclosing can help you access practical supports to make college life and learning more manageable and accessible.

Why You Might Disclose

Many students choose not to disclose because of stigma or fear of being misunderstood. But sharing your diagnosis can:

• Help your lecturers and tutors understand how to support you.
• Give you access to adjustments known as Reasonable Accommodations – things like extra time in exams or learning support.

Your Rights

In Ireland, laws like the Equal Status Act and Education Act require colleges and universities to support students with disabilities. This includes removing barriers to access and offering accommodations where needed (unless doing so would cause the college “undue burden” which rarely applies, especially if state funding is available).

Available Supports

By registering with your college’s Disability Support Service (DSS) or Access Officer, you may have access to supports like:

• Lecture support: permission to record lectures, access to notes or a note-taker.
• Accessible classrooms: if you need step-free access or sensory-friendly seating.
• Quiet Rooms / Sensory Rooms / Pods: Reserved spaces on campus for those who need low sensory environments to regulate or focus.
• Exam accommodations: extra time, a quiet room, use of a computer, reader or a scribe.
• Assignment flexibility: potential for deadline extensions in certain cases.
• Learning Support Tutor: regular sessions with a staff member to help with organisation and coursework management.
• Assistive Technology Training: not just access to software, but training on how to use things like screen readers, mind mapping tools, or dictation software effectively.
• Accessible accommodation: some colleges offer accessible housing options.
• Peer Mentoring / Transition Programmes: many universities have peer-led initiatives for students with disabilities or neurodivergent students.

Deciding to Disclose

You don’t have to disclose straight away, or at all, but if you are struggling, it can be a good step toward getting help. Even if you feel you’re getting on well at college, disclosure can support future accommodations (e.g. during exams) and promote better understanding of your needs among your lecturers and other staff members.

How to Disclose

You can start by meeting with the Disability Support Service or speaking to your lecturer or tutor. You may need documentation, such as a psychologist’s report or letter of diagnosis. Once registered, staff will only share your information with others (like lecturers) if needed and with your permission.

If you want a parent or friend to support you in meetings, you can invite them – but they can’t act on your behalf without consent.

Common Concerns

It’s normal to feel anxious about disclosing. Colleges are becoming increasingly aware of neurodiversity and are expected to support your right to learn as yourself, without needing to mask your identity.