What is a counselor's recommended approach to assisting a student with learning differences in the college application process?

• A. Advise the student to hide disabilities and avoid requesting accommodations.
• B. Identify accommodations and documentation, connect with disability services at colleges, ensure necessary testing accommodations, and explain how accommodations may be used in admissions or campus life.
• C. Encourage the student to apply without accommodations and hope for the best.
• D. Suggest only general college readiness without considering disability needs.

Answer: (B)

Focusing on coordinating accommodations and disability services is essential because it centers the student’s access to the supports they need to participate fully in both the admissions process and college life. By identifying what accommodations are required and gathering the necessary documentation, the counselor helps the student present a clear, legitimate plan for support. Connecting with disability services at target colleges makes sure the student understands what those schools offer, how testing accommodations are handled for standardized tests and on campus, and how accommodations will be used in admissions and daily college activities. This proactive planning reduces barriers, supports self-advocacy, and ensures transparency about needs. Hiding disabilities or skipping accommodations can lead to unmet needs and misalignment with what the student actually requires, while focusing only on general readiness overlooks these critical supports.