10 Essential Tips for a Successful College Transition

Helping Teenagers with Dysgraphia and Other Learning Disabilities Prepare for their College Transition

Sending a child off to college is an emotional and sometimes daunting milestone for any parent—but when your student has a learning difference like dysgraphia, the leap can feel even bigger. In the recent Dysgraphia Life webinar presented by Mandi Buckalew, M.Ed., Program Director and Academic Coach for Auburn University’s SKILL Program, parents and students received a wealth of practical advice and encouragement to make the transition to college a smoother, more empowering experience.

Below, we expand on the ten key topics Mandi discussed, sharing actionable tips and essential resources to help set your neurodivergent child up for college success.

1. Understand How College Differs from High School

One of the biggest revelations for both students and parents is that special education in college is very different. Unlike K-12, college is governed not by IDEA, but by Section 504 and ADA, both of which focus on access—NOT academic success. Students must self-disclose their disability, advocate for their needs, and manage accommodations directly with professors and the school’s disability office.

Tip: Start talking with your student about their diagnosis, strengths, and needs. Empower them with the words to explain their accommodations and how these support their learning.

2. Gather and Organize Documentation

Colleges require up-to-date documentation to grant accommodations, but requirements vary. Most schools want a diagnosis report from the past three to five years. It’s up to families (not high schools) to ensure all paperwork for learning differences and health conditions is gathered, current, and submitted.

Tip: Involve your student in every step—looking up requirements, compiling materials, and practicing how to explain their needs.

3. Build Executive Function and Life Skills

Mandi suggests the “three-month question”: ask your child what they’d need help with if left home alone for three months. This exercise uncovers all the hidden “adulting” tasks they’ll face—cleaning, shopping, cooking, finances, scheduling appointments, and more. The earlier teens practice these skills, the more confident and independent they become.

Tip: Let teens take responsibility even if they aren’t perfect. Remember, discomfort builds autonomy and resilience.

4. Destigmatize Special Education and Celebrate Success

Students who make it to college despite a learning difference are “high flyers”—their academic potential is there, even if the path looks different. Destigmatize the need for accommodations and frame them as tools that level the playing field, not crutches.

Tip: Remind your student—and yourself—that using available supports is a sign of strength.

5. Empower Students With Their Own Medical Information

Encourage students to know their diagnoses, medications, allergies, and the practicalities of prescription refills. This independence translates into confidence—and ensures safety.

6. Use the Summer Wisely for Practice and Preparation

Summer before college is a critical time to let teens break in new tech (laptops, tablets) and to turn over responsibility for daily tasks. Shift into “roommate mode” at home, using shared living expectations as a bridge to the dorm experience.

7. Set Healthy Boundaries—For Parents!

After years of advocacy, pulling back can feel unnatural. But Mandi urges parents to “park the helicopter” and let students own their college journey. She even jokes about channeling extra parental energy into caring for a pet or starting new hobbies!

Tip: Avoid overstepping—especially publicly on social media, which can damage your student’s emerging reputation and job prospects.

8. Leverage Technology and Tools for Success

From voice-to-text for writing challenges to scheduling apps and study aids, the tech toolkit for students with dysgraphia has never been stronger. Recommendations from the webinar include StudyFetch, Goblin Tools, Finch, Habitica, and transcription software like Otter and Glean. Try out features early, and discover what fits your student’s learning style.

9. Embrace the Power of Failure and Growth

Failure is “a first attempt in learning.” Let students stumble and recover—this is where grit and perseverance are built. Encourage open, empathic conversations—and model the same grace for yourself as you navigate this new phase.

10. Explore Options Like Gap Years If Needed

A gap year can be invaluable for further developing executive function, independence, and sense of direction. Deferring college doesn’t mean missing out—it may mean making the most of higher ed when the time is right.

Conclusion

Transitioning to college is about more than academics—it's about guiding your student toward ownership of their journey. With preparation, the right supports, and a mindset focused on growth and independence, young adults with dysgraphia and other learning differences can thrive in college and beyond.

To view the full webinar, visit Dysgraphia Life’s learning platform and community, dysgraphiaLEARN. You’re not alone—and neither is your student.