Students with Suspected Disabilities

There may be occasions when you notice a student having academic difficulties that cannot be explained by typical college circumstances. It may be the student has an undiagnosed disability or may not be using accommodations for a diagnosed disability. A student may ask for extra time and/or a private room because s/he has test anxiety or English is his/her second language. Neither of these situations is considered a disability. Do not assume someone having academic problems has a disability. This Info Sheet will help you decide when to refer a student to Disability Services for Students (DSS) for a consultation regarding a suspected disability.

• Speak with the student privately. Be specific about the student’s performance and express your concern in a non-judgmental way:

“I can tell you understand the concepts and are a good participant in class discussion, but your test grades don’t seem to reflect your knowledge of the subject.”

• Asking a few questions about what is interfering with the student’s performance will help you make an appropriate referral:



“Tell me how you prepare for a test.” (Student Success Center)

“How would extra time help you?” If the student is an international student, s/he could be understanding English at a much slower rate than other students. (International Center)

“You seem to know the material, why are you so anxious when taking tests?” (Counseling Center)

• If the student says s/he had extra help” or was identified as having a disability in high school or has tried other solutions without results, the student may have a previous or undiagnosed disability now interfering with academic performance. It is then appropriate to refer the student to Disability Services. The student can schedule an appointment for a confidential meeting.
  Contact DSS at 777-3425, email at und.dss@email.und.edu or stop by the office in McCannel Hall, Rm. 190.