Neurodiversity and ASD resources for prospective Iowa students:

At the University of Iowa, we believe all students should benefit from their learning environment. We welcome more than 5,000 new undergraduate students to campus each year from high schools and colleges around the world, representing diverse learning abilities. The support and services available at the university may differ from those provided in high school. However, we remain committed to providing support and care for all enrolled students. Below are examples of resources currently available:

Academic Advising Center (AAC)

The Academic Advising Center (AAC) provides academic advising to all entering College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS) first-year students, some transfer students, pre-professional students, and nondegree students. Advisors provide intensive academic support through regular contact with the students they advise and help students explore their academic interests and develop plans based on their goals. Visit the Academic Advising Center website.

Academy for Twice-Exceptionality

The Academy for Twice-Exceptionality, part of the Belin-Blank Center, strives to ensure that neurodiverse college students have a positive and fulfilling college experience. The program focuses on nurturing students' talents while fostering a sense of community. Visit the Academy for Twice-Exceptionality website.

Leadership and Engagement

Leadership and Engagement fosters growth and leadership among students and their organizations by providing arts and entertainment, leadership and civic engagement programs, and student activities. Students can explore many opportunities to become involved on campus through the office. Visit the Leadership and Engagement website.

Office of Student Learning (OSL)

The Office of Student Learning coordinates a variety of academic support programs and initiatives to empower undergraduate students to meet their academic goals. OSL oversees Supplemental Instruction, which offers free, course-specific study sessions led by peers to help students better understand course content while developing effective study strategies. Visit the Office of Student Learning website.

Pathways to Excellence

Pathways to Excellence enhances student access to support services that empower them to reach their full potential. Through academic coaching and other support initiatives, the office provides guidance, resources, and holistic support to help students successfully transition to, navigate, and thrive throughout their college experience. Visit the Pathways to Excellence website.

Pomerantz Career Center

The Pomerantz Career Center helps students explore and prepare for career opportunities. Career advisors and peer advisors help students identify their interests, skills, strengths, and values while connecting them with possible career paths after graduation. All students are welcome to discuss ways to connect their interests with their career goals. Visit the Pomerantz Career Center website.

Student Care and Assistance

Student Care and Assistance provides support to any University of Iowa student experiencing challenges during their college career. The office coordinates with professionals across campus to assist students experiencing concerns such as family emergencies, hospitalization, or other unexpected events. Visit the Student Care and Assistance website.

Student Disability Services (SDS)

Student Disability Services strives to ensure a fair learning environment where students can succeed based on their own efforts and initiative. SDS coordinates accommodations for eligible students under federal law and provides information about requesting accommodations and available services. Visit the Student Disability Services website.

University Counseling Service (UCS)

University Counseling Service provides mental health services for University of Iowa students. Psychologists and social workers help students develop strategies for navigating challenging life situations and emotional experiences, strengthening relationships, and supporting academic success. UCS also offers brief consultations for urgent concerns and a limited number of same-day appointments for students experiencing distress. Visit the University Counseling Service website.

University Housing and Dining

At Iowa, 94% of incoming first-year students choose to live on campus. The residence halls provide opportunities to build community while living close to classes, libraries, dining options, and other campus resources. Visit the University Housing and Dining website.

UI Students for Disability Advocacy and Awareness

UI Students for Disability Advocacy and Awareness is a student organization that promotes and advocates for a supportive and inclusive environment for students with disabilities on campus. Visit the UI Students for Disability Advocacy and Awareness website.

Sessions to attend for incoming students

First-year orientation

  • Attending the Student Disability Services (SDS) session offered on the second day of the two-day first-year orientation program. This session is designed for students and their families to meet members of the SDS team, learn about available services, and discuss accommodations.
  • Discussing your needs or concerns with your academic advisor.

Transfer student orientation

  • Orientation for incoming transfer students is a day-long experience.
  • The program includes large-group sessions with audiences of 100–130 people, as well as smaller breakout sessions with 10–25 students.
  • During orientation, students will navigate campus on foot, led by a trained peer leader. Walking distances may include routes of about 10 minutes. Students may also need to locate an advising office on campus, which may require a longer walk or use of the campus bus system.
  • During transfer orientation: consider setting up a meeting with Student Disability Services while you are on campus for orientation. The office is located near most orientation programming.
  • During transfer orientation: consider discussing your needs or concerns with your academic advisor.