Resources for Neurodivergent Students

Neurodiversity, a term encompassing a range of neurological differences, reflects a vast spectrum of human cognitive abilities. Those who identify as neurodivergent often process information, learn, and interact with the world in ways that diverge from neurotypical norms. Neurodivergent people may be diagnosed with autism, ADHD, or learning disabilities.

While neurodivergent and neurotypical students possess unique strengths and challenges, K-12 schools, colleges, and universities (and even many workplaces) have recognized that neurodivergent learners benefit from tailored approaches to accommodate their distinct learning styles and help them be successful.

Higher education institutions play an important role in fostering a welcoming environment for neurodiverse students. By implementing robust neurodiversity programs like specialized academic support, accommodations, and social communities designed to celebrate neurodiversity, colleges and universities can mitigate social isolation and negative experiences these students may encounter. 

The following is a list of resources for students and their families to help them thrive in academic and work environments.

Neurodiverse universities and initiatives

Here are a few college- and university-specific initiatives.

Autism-specific College Support Programs
This database identifies U.S. colleges and universities with programs that support students with autism.

Neurodiversity in college
This website includes an extensive list of over 200 colleges and universities offering a range of services for neurodiverse students. The list includes services provided and whether the programs are free or have an additional fee.

California State University, Chico
This college includes multiple resources for neurodiverse students, including its neurodiversity and disability task force, Accessibility Resource Center (ARC), and guide for its teaching staff.

Center for Neurodiversity
Landmark College’s Center for Neurodiversity celebrates and advocates for advancing the understanding of the benefits and value of a neurodiverse society.

The Center for Neurodiversity, Learning, and Wellness (CNLW)
University of La Verne’s CNLW offers a breadth of educational services, professional training, research, and community engagement to promote a greater understanding of neurodiversity. The schedule of events, classes, and private sessions equip and empower students with the cognitive, emotional, and social tools to become powerful self-advocates.

Embracing Neurodivergent Groups in Academics and Gainful Employment (ENGAGE)
Started in 2017 at the University of North Texas, this program improves the quality of life for neurodivergent students by supporting their academic, personal, social, and vocational success.

LifePATH
Lone Star College’s post-secondary program for neurodiverse students helps them develop independence, become self-determined, increase their knowledge of college-level academic expectations, practice social expectations needed to succeed in the adult world and explore career opportunities.

The Neurodiversity Initiative
This William & Mary Initiative seeks to educate the college’s community — staff, educators, and students — about brain differences while also supporting its neurodiverse population.

Project LETS
Individuals with lived experience of mental health conditions, disabilities, trauma, and neurodivergence founded and lead this grassroots organization, whose mission is to establish just, responsive, and transformative peer support collectives. It has chapters led by peer mental health advocates (PMHAs) at over 20 colleges and universities, including Brown University, Columbia University, University of Pennsylvania, Cornell University, Boston University, Boston College, Tufts, Stanford University, UCLA, Smith College, Ithaca College, Adelphi, and Indiana University Bloomington.

 Stanford Neurodiversity Project
Students can take advantage of Stanford’s Neurodiverse Student Support Program (NSSP), which offers support and resources to help them maximize their potential and thrive in the university’s community.

Organizations supporting neurodiverse students

 NASA’s Neurodiversity Network (N3)
This network offers a pathway to employment with NASA and within STEM fields for neurodiverse learners, specifically those on the autism spectrum.

The Neurodiversity Alliance
The ND’s mission? “To improve the educational experience and outcomes of students who learn differently while growing the neurodiversity movement for a more equitable and inclusive society for all.

The Neurodiversity Hub
This organization provides professional education, training, and resources for professionals and individuals supporting the neurodiverse community. It also offers resources for neurodiverse students and families. Find additional links and information here for:

• Transition to university or college in Australia
• Stairway to STEM - a U.S.-based organization offering resources to autistic students, families, and instructors.
• College Autism Spectrum - a U.S.-based organization that offers resources for students transitioning to college and then work.
• College Autism Network - a U.S.-based nonprofit whose mission is to improve autistic students’ likelihood of graduating from a post-secondary institution.
• On Your Marq Program - Marquette University’s checklists for students to help manage life on the first day of class, moving into the residence hall, thriving during a typical class day, and taking advantage of office hours.
• “Be Your Best” life skills and work-ready skills training - students and job-seekers can access a variety of courses and materials online — everything from organizational skills to cooking and presentation skills.
• Moneybasics - a course that teaches budgeting, daily expense management, and more.
•  Guide to employer expos and career fairs - a guide designed to explain what students should expect, how to prepare, and strategies for following up after it concludes.

Other helpful resources you can find on Neurodiversity Hub’s main resources page include:

• Videos sharing lived experiences of autistic students
• Lived experience essays shared by neurodiverse people
• A PDF and website link to resources for managing anxiety
• A “grounding exercise” booklet
• PDFs on how (and whether) to disclose your disability at school or work
• A job readiness workbook
• A roadmap lab book to help develop transition plans
• A guide for navigating LinkedIn
• A “Dress for success” and interview tips guide
• Resources for people with dyslexia
• Resources for people with ADHD
• Diversity and Ability (D&A) resources on everything from technology to well-being and meditation to note-taking

College and university shouldn’t be out of reach for neurodiverse students. More higher institutions have taken steps to ensure they’re supporting all students in their communities.