The EDUFAX Educational FAQ

Question #50:

I have a learning disability that makes my reading and writing really slow. I often receive lower grades on my English and History papers because I turn my work in late. On the other hand, I usually get all A's in Math and Science. My combined SAT score is 1520; my GPA = 3.48. If I explain my LD in my college applications, will the discrepancies hurt my chances of being accepted?

Answer #50:

Have you made your teachers and advisors aware of your learning disability? If not, there is nothing you can do to change your grades. However, with such a high composite SAT score, it seems obvious that you have strengths not only in Math and Science, but in language-based subjects as well. Perhaps you are eligible for extended time in some of your subjects. I urge you to have an educational evaluation done before you leave for college so that you can get the accommodations you need there even if you haven't been receiving them in high school. If you have a problem with processing speed, you should not be getting lower grades in History and English simply because it takes you longer to complete a paper. You need an advocate (a guidance counselor, LD specialist, or educational consultant) to help explain this situation when you apply to college so that the schools can see that you are capable of doing top level work across the board. EDUFAX provides services for the Learning Disabled Student.

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