Evaluations for College

students and adults

When learning challenges create questions, our experts provide answers that make a difference. Our comprehensive evaluations that lead to clarity, understanding, and solutions.

For more than two decades, our trusted approach has helped thousands nationwide find clarity, understanding, and a path forward.

Why our approach works

At Diagnostic Learning Services, we never assess a single skill in isolation. Every evaluation is designed to connect the dots between reading, writing, math, attention, memory, and processing—ensuring accurate diagnoses and clear, practical next steps. Our goal is to give you answers, direction, and a plan that leads to lasting success.

Comprehensive Psycho-Educational Evaluations

Our adult and college-level evaluations help identify the underlying causes of learning, attention, or processing difficulties that may affect performance in academic, professional, or daily settings. Whether you’ve struggled for years or are noticing new challenges in college or the workplace, our assessments are designed to determine whether these difficulties stem from a specific learning disability—such as dyslexia, dysgraphia, or dyscalculia—or an attention-related concern like ADHD.

Each evaluation offers more than just a diagnosis—it provides insight, self-understanding, and the tools to move forward with confidence. The results can be used to request accommodations in college, standardized testing, or the workplace, and to develop strategies that make learning and productivity more effective.

What Our Assessments Measure

Our comprehensive approach examines every key area of learning and cognition, including:  

Learning Disabilities

Identifying dyslexia (reading), dysgraphia (writing), and dyscalculia (math) to clarify academic needs.

Attention and Focus

Evaluating for ADHD and related attention difficulties that impact classroom performance.

Visual and Auditory Processing

Understanding how the brain interprets information through sight and sound.

Problem-Solving & Processing Speed

Measuring reasoning, cognitive flexibility, and how efficiently information is understood.

Memory

Assessing both short-term and long-term memory crucial for comprehension and retention.

Academic Skills

Measuring foundational reading, writing, and math abilities to identify areas for targeted support.

What to Expect on the Day of Testing

During the evaluation, you’ll meet one-on-one with our assessment specialist. Together, you’ll complete a series of structured, interactive tasks that measure attention, processing, memory, and reasoning to build a complete picture of how you learn.

Every evaluation is personalized to your goals—whether you’re pursuing college accommodations, preparing for professional exams, or seeking clarity about lifelong learning challenges.

After the Evaluation: Creating A ‘Road Map’ for Success

Our goal is not only to provide a diagnosis but also to equip you with the knowledge and strategies to move forward. After your evaluation, it’s important to understand the next steps and the resources available to help you succeed in your personal and professional life.

Within 10 to 14 business days of the evaluation, you will meet with a Diagnostic Learning Services Director to review the results. During this meeting, the director explains the findings and recommendations in clear, practical terms. The resulting report serves as a valuable tool for requesting accommodations, sharing documentation with professors or employers, and creating a personalized plan for ongoing success.  Let us help you become the expert in your own success—at school, work, and beyond.

Tip:

Follow-up appointments are an excellent opportunity to ask detailed questions and clarify any recommendations made during the evaluation.

Based on the assessment results we may recommend:

• Requesting Workplace Accommodations: Tailored support in your job to address learning challenges, such as extra time on projects or different communication methods.

• Exploring Specialized Interventions: Programs and interventions designed to target specific challenges and enhance your learning process.

• Using Assistive Technology: Tools like voice to text software, organizational apps, or text to speech tools that can support you in daily tasks.

• Accessing External Resources and Support Networks: Finding support groups, counseling services, or external coaching that can help you overcome challenges and meet your goals.

What is Dyslexia?

/Dis-lek-see-uh/

Dyslexia is a learning disorder that makes it difficult to understand how sounds and letters work together to form words. This can lead to challenges with recognizing words accurately, sounding out new words, reading fluently, and spelling. Even with proper instruction, children with dyslexia often continue to struggle significantly with reading and writing despite strong overall intelligence.

Note:

It’s important to know that dyslexia is not about reversing letters or numbers, writing or reading backward, or words moving on the page.

Red flags of Dyslexia

Reading Challenges:

Difficulty reading quickly or fluently, especially under pressure; trouble with unfamiliar or complex words; prefers audiobooks or spoken instructions over written text.

Writing and Spelling:

Spelling remains inconsistent, with frequent errors in written work; difficulty proofreading or catching their own mistakes; may avoid tasks that require a lot of writing.

Coping Mechanisms:

Adults often rely on technology (e.g., spell-checkers) or ask others for help; may develop strong verbal or problem-solving skills to compensate.

Other Signs:

Difficulty with time management, organization, and remembering instructions; feeling self-conscious or frustrated about reading or writing tasks.

Did you know?

Dyslexia comes with powerful strengths. Dyslexia often goes undiagnosed into adulthood, leaving many people to believe they were “bad readers” rather than simply misunderstood learners. Studies show dyslexic thinkers are often exceptional at imagination, exploring new ideas, problem-solving, and big-picture thinking. It’s no surprise that a striking share of entrepreneurs are dyslexic—many turn their different wiring into innovation.

Why We Look at the Whole Picture

At Diagnostic Learning, we do not assess for a single learning disability in isolation. A comprehensive evaluation is essential to understanding how an individual learns and processes information. By assessing multiple areas—such as reading, writing, math, attention, memory, and processing—we can rule out overlapping challenges and ensure the most accurate diagnosis and support plan.

What is Dyscalculia?

/Dis-kal-coo-lee-uh/

Dyscalculia is a learning disability that affects the ability to work with numbers, understand mathematical concepts, and manage time. It can make everyday tasks—like calculating tips, managing finances, or even understanding time—incredibly challenging. For many adults with dyscalculia, these difficulties often lead to frustration and stress, especially in the workplace or during social interactions.

Note:

Dyscalculia is not a reflection of intelligence; it is a difficulty with processing numerical information and mathematical concepts.

Red flags of Dyscalculia

If you notice these signs in your child, they may be experiencing the effects of dyscalculia

Trouble with Basic Math

Struggles with foundational skills like addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division.

No “Number Sense”

Difficulty understanding the value of numbers, quantities, or how numbers relate to each other.

Forgets Math Steps

Confusion with multi-step math problems, such as long division, and often performing the steps out of order.

Clocks and Time Don’t Add Up

Struggles to read an analog clock or estimate how long something will take.

Mental Math Feels Impossible

Difficulty calculating simple problems in their head, either very slowly or inaccurately.

Direction Mix-Ups

Trouble distinguishing left from right or following spatial directions.

Money Math is Stressful

Difficulty handling money, calculating change, or sticking to a budget.

Confused About Time and Dates

Struggles to understand concepts like days, weeks, or seasons.

Did you know?

Math challenges don’t disappear with age, and many adults have spent years feeling “bad at math” without knowing why. Adults with dyscalculia often have strong critical-thinking and verbal abilities, even if numbers have always felt overwhelming. Identifying dyscalculia later in life can provide relief and opens the door to tools, strategies, and academic or workplace supports that reduce stress and enhance performance.

Why We Look at the Whole Picture

What is Dysgraphia?

Dysgraphia isn’t just “messy handwriting.” It’s a learning disability that affects motor skills and written expression. Adults with dysgraphia may struggle with everything from note-taking to filling out forms, writing emails, or even daily motor tasks like tying shoelaces or handling small objects. Many have found ways to compensate, sometimes avoiding writing altogether.

Note:

Dysgraphia is not a sign of intelligence or effort. It’s a neurological condition that impacts writing and fine motor coordination.

Red flags of Dysgraphia

If you notice these signs in your child, they may be experiencing the effects of dyscalculia

Hard-to-Read Writing:

Writing is hard to read even to you.

Fine Motor Skill Issues:

Difficulty with small, precise movements (e.g., buttoning a shirt, cutting food).

Problems Following Steps:

Difficulty with sequential tasks (e.g., learning new game rules, assembling furniture).

Struggles with Spatial Awareness:

Challenges understanding maps, layouts, or aligning text properly on a page.

Avoidance of Handwriting:

Prefers digital alternatives, like voice-to-text or typing.

Spelling Problems:

Frequent misspellings, even of simple or familiar words.

Letter Irregularities:

Randomly switches between uppercase, lowercase, cursive, and print while writing.

Hand Discomfort or Fatigue:

Experiences pain, cramping, or fatigue after short periods of writing.

Typing and Texting Frustrations:

Finds typing slow, frustrating, or difficult to coordinate.

Did you know?

Adults with dysgraphia often excel verbally, creatively, and interpersonally. For many adults, dysgraphia has meant years of avoiding writing or feeling embarrassed about handwriting or written communication. An evaluation provides clarity and helps adults access tools—like speech-to-text, typing supports, and academic or workplace accommodations—that make writing easier and more efficient.

Why We Look at the Whole Picture

What is ADHD

ADHD, or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, is a neurodevelopment condition that affects attention, self-control, and activity levels. It often begins in childhood and can continue into adulthood. People with ADHD may have trouble focusing, staying organized, following instructions, or sitting still.

There are three main types: inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive, and combined. ADHD is not caused by poor parenting or lack of effort; it is linked to brain differences and genetics. With proper support, structure, and sometimes medication, individuals with ADHD can manage symptoms effectively and succeed in school and daily life.

Did you know?

Millions of adults have ADHD, with many discovering it only after years of feeling misunderstood, disorganized, or “always behind”, often without ever realizing why. A diagnosis brings clarity, not limitation. With the right strategies, supports, and accommodations, adults with ADHD often experience dramatic improvements in productivity, emotional regulation, relationships, and overall quality of life. It’s never too late to thrive.

There are 3 types of ADHD

While once considered separate diagnoses, Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), primarily associated with inattentive behaviors like "daydreaming," and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), linked to hyperactivity, are now both recognized under the umbrella of ADHD. This single diagnosis now encompasses three distinct subtypes, reflecting the diverse range of behaviors within the disorder. Here are the characteristics of each type:

Predominantly Inattentive Type

Fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes.
Has difficulty sustaining attention.
Does not appear to listen.
Struggles to follow through on instructions.
Has difficulty with organization.
Avoids or dislikes tasks requiring sustained mental effort.
Loses things.
Is easily distracted.
Is forgetful in daily activities.

Predominantly Hyperactive/Impulsive Type

Fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in chair.
Has difficulty remaining seated.
Runs about or climbs excessively.
Difficulty engaging in activities quietly.
Acts as if driven by a motor.
Talks excessively.
Blurts out answers before questions have been completed.
Difficulty waiting or taking turns.
Interrupts or intrudes upon others.

Combined Type

Individual meets both inattention and hyperactive/impulsive criteria.

Note:

Past evaluations often relied solely on symptom surveys, which could lead to misdiagnoses. Our approach uses a comprehensive process for accurate results.

ADHD Evaluation Options for Adults

Diagnostic Learning Services provides two evaluation options for adults seeking an ADHD assessment:

Comprehensive ADHD Evaluation:

This in-depth evaluation examines all areas of cognitive processing, attention, impulsivity, hyperactivity, and executive function. It also includes a screening for underlying mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression.

The evaluation takes 3.5-4 hours to complete, using both subjective and objective measures. The results offer sufficient documentation for ADHD treatment and can be used for obtaining accommodations at the college level or for standardized exams such as the GRE, LSAT, MCAT, and professional licensing exams.

Note:

This thorough evaluation also provides the necessary documentation for formal accommodations such as college level support and standardized exam accommodations in addition to supporting ADHD treatment.

Focused ADHD Evaluation:

This evaluation specifically assesses ADHD by testing processing skills affected by inattention and lack of focus. It includes both subjective and objective measures of attention, impulsivity, and activity levels, and is typically completed in 1.5 - 2 hours, mostly online with face-to-face interaction with the examiner.

Additionally, symptom inventories can be sent to family members or close contacts for feedback on behavior at home. This evaluation provides adequate documentation for ADHD treatment but does not support college accommodations or standardized testing needs.

Note:

This option is for diagnosis and treatment purposes only and does not meet the documentation requirements for college accommodations or standardized testing.

The Qb Check

As part of both ADHD evaluation options, we utilize the Qb Check, an FDA-approved, computer-based test that measures attention, impulsivity, and activity levels in real-time. This advanced technology uses visual tracking to monitor head and body movements while you complete a brief interactive task.

By combining Qb Check data with symptom surveys, behavioral observations, and other assessments, we gain a more accurate and objective picture of how ADHD may be affecting you.

Click here for more information about the Qb Check.

Why We Look at the Whole Picture

Start Your Evaluation Today

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FAQs

Find answers to common questions about our diagnostic services and processes.

What is a 'psycho-educational evaluation'?

A psycho-educational evaluation is a comprehensive assessment designed to provide a clear, detailed picture of how someone learns, processes, and retains information. It involves tests that measure cognitive abilities (like memory, problem-solving, and reasoning skills), academic achievement (reading, math, and writing performance), or attention difficulties.

These assessments are crucial to help identify learning disabilities, ADHD, or other learning-related challenges while providing clear documentation and a detailed roadmap of an individual’s strengths and areas of need. This information helps parents, educators, or employers understand why someone may be struggling and what types of supports, accommodations, or interventions will be most effective. Without a comprehensive evaluation, it can be difficult to accurately pinpoint the root of these challenges or how to provide meaningful, effective support moving forward.

Will schools or colleges accept your evaluations for accommodations?

Yes, absolutely. Our comprehensive reports are meticulously designed to meet the rigorous standards and specific documentation requirements set forth by all educational institutions and testing authorities.

Diagnostic Learning is committed to staying up-to-date on the latest evolving guidelines, laws, and best practices across the educational and testing landscapes. The documentation you receive from us will be current, compliant, and universally accepted, giving you peace of mind and reducing the stress of the accommodations process.

How soon can we schedule testing, and when will we get results?

Once you’re ready to move forward, appointments are typically scheduled within 10–14 days of your call with us, depending on availability.

After testing is completed, our team needs approximately 10–14 days to review the results and prepare a detailed evaluation report. You’ll then meet with a director for a comprehensive follow-up meeting, who will walk you through the results in clear, easy-to-understand terms and provide a personalized roadmap of recommendations and next steps.

Do you test adults, too—or just kids?

Yes! Learning differences don’t only affect children. Many adults discover later in life that they’ve been compensating for learning or attention challenges for years without answers. We test individuals of all ages, including college students and working professionals who may need documentation for academic, workplace, or professional exam accommodations.

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