- Home
- Students
- Documentation Guidelines
- Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Primary Documentation
It is most helpful when students provide an evaluation report such as a psychoeducational evaluation or neuropsychological assessment. More current documentation is always preferred since it puts AccessibleNU in a better position to determine reasonable accommodations. Diagnostic reports should be completed by qualified professionals, and should include the following information:
- Documented developmental history indicating relevant symptoms and behaviors across multiple settings. Possible data sources include past evaluations, school records, teacher and parent reports.
- Documentation of current symptoms that meet DSM-5 diagnostic criteria or otherwise demonstrate functional impact. Possible data sources include:
- Clinical interviews
- IQ tests (with special reference to any working memory and processing speed index scores)
- Conners' CPT 3, TOVA 9, or other continuous performance tests
- Tests of memory, attention, processing, and fluency from batteries such as the Woodcock Johnson IV Tests of Cognitive Abilities and of Achievement
- Any medication the student is prescribed and a clear statement made as to whether the student was taking the medication(s) during the evaluation.
- Documentation of current adult behavior (and past childhood behavior if possible) on rating scales of AD/HD symptoms that have appropriate norms. Possible data sources include norm-based behavior rating scales.
- Corroboration of current AD/HD symptoms across multiple settings by one or more independent observers with knowledge of the student’s functioning. Possible data source include parent, spouse, teacher, supervisor, co-worker, relative, and/or clinician.
- Evidence of interference with developmentally appropriate academic, social, or vocational functioning.
- Other causes of problems with attention and concentration should be considered and discussed.
- A positive response to medication is not, by itself, considered diagnostic.
ADHD Verification Form
ANU's AD/HD Verification Form should be thoroughly filled out on behalf of the student by a licensed professional who diagnosed and/or currently treats the student.
Supplemental Documentation
Examples of documentation that are not typically adequate at the post-secondary level, but could be used to supplement primary documentation include:
- Letters stating only that the student has AD/HD or is taking a particular medication for AD/HD
- An IEP or 504 Plan
- A copy of a prescription for stimulant medication
- Accommodation letters from previous institutions
- Accommodation approval letters from standardized tests