You may be the kind of person who has always had problems with study; these issues might include difficulty concentrating in class, numeracy issues, reading and writing problems or difficulties with written expression or comprehension. These challenges may be related to a particular medical problem that you are aware of, or you may have never had these issues investigated as you always just ‘got by’ and ‘coped’. Problems with study can often become more apparent with increased challenges in Year 11 and 12 at school or when a person has commenced university.

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You may be eligible for assistance with your studies if you are diagnosed with cognitive deficits relating to a brain injury, another neurological problem, attention problems (e.g. ADHD/ADD) or a learning difficulty (such as a reading, spelling or numeracy disorder) if this is identified via a private evidence-based neuropsychological assessment. Provisions offered can include extra time for exams and/or assignments, assistance during exams and ongoing assistance from a support person (often funded through a third party).  However, admission criteria in the public health system can be very restricted and even if you are accepted for assessment waitlist times can be very long. Evidence-based neuropsychological assessment may also find that you have a weakness in some area/s but not a diagnosable problem, or in fact your performance may fall within the anticipated range; the focus will then be on identification of strengths and finding ways of ‘working around’ any cognitive weaknesses that have been identified.