On this page:
  • Information about screenings
  • What are the main indicators of specific learning difficulties?
  • Outcomes of an SpLD screening
  • What are the main indicators of autism?
  • Outcomes of an autism screening

Information about screenings

You can make an appointment with the Disability Advisory Service to have a screening for specific learning difficulties (SpLDs) or autism. 

  • Disability advisers carry out autism screenings
  • The Dyslexia/SpLD team carry out SpLD screenings.  
At this appointment, we will discuss your difficulties with you. If appropriate, you will be asked to answer questions which will help to identify indicators of a specific learning difficulty or autism.
 

Information about screenings

Autism and SpLD screenings

If you are within three months of leaving Imperial, you will not be able to have a screening.

SpLD screenings

If you have (or have had) an identified mental health condition, physical health condition or sensory impairment please meet with a disability advisor first. 

SpLD screenings

Screenings and assessments are not carried out for individual SpLDs. Dyslexia, characteristics of dyspraxia DCD and characteristics of ADHD will be assessed together in most cases. It is a learning-based assessment that will only lead to possible support and exam arrangements. The medical model of assessment for AD(H)D differs in both approach and outcomes in that it is a single condition assessment, and it can lead to a prescription for medication. Imperial has no influence over this process. For students registered with Imperial College Health Centre there is further guidance.

What are the main indicators of specific learning difficulties?

Problems with acquiring:

  • Reading accuracy/speed
  • Spelling accuracy, writing speed and fluency of expression
  • Auditory short term/working memory
  • Time awareness
  • Directional sense
  • Personal organisation
  • Speed of processing (facts, thoughts and ideas)
  • Attention and concentration
  • Motor skills
  • Common strengths

Common strengths:

  • Often highly creative
  • Persistent
  • See patterns, connections and similarities that others don’t see
  • Holistic: they see the big picture, don’t get lost in detail, get to the important aspects
  • Understanding of abstract ideas
  • An inclination to think outside the box

Outcomes of an SpLD screening

Screening suggests an SpLD

If we find enough indicators of an SpLD, you will be given the option to attend a diagnostic assessment with a qualified assessor.
We will:
• explain what an assessment is;
• inform you of the expected wait time for an assessment;
• send you an email with details on how to make your contribution to the assessment fee.

Find out more about SpLD diagnostic assessments

Screening doesn't suggest an SpLD

If a screening does not find enough indicators of a specific learning difficulty, you will be guided to appropriate support such as accessing the inclusive technologies in the software hub or attending other study skills sessions run by Imperial. You are welcome to return to discuss matters further in the future.

What are the main indicators of autism?

Problems may exist in some or all of the following key areas:

  • Spoken communication: making conversation and understanding what other people say and mean
  • Non-verbal communication: body language, eye contact, facial expressions
  • Understanding the complexities of social relationships
  • Coping with change, particularly if sudden or unexpected
  • Heightened sensitivity in one or more senses, for example in relation to certain noises or textures

Common strengths:

  • An eye for detail
  • Preference for clarity and transparency
  • Plain speaking
  • Embracing routine and planning
  • Following rules and regulations

Outcomes of an autism screening

Screening suggests autism

If we find enough indicators of autism, you will be given the option to attend a diagnostic assessment with a qualified assessor.
We will:
• explain what an assessment is;
• inform you of the expected wait time for an assessment;
• send you an email with details on how to make your contribution to the assessment fee.

Find out more about autism diagnostic assessments

Screening doesn't suggest autism

If a screening does not find enough indicators of autism, we will investigate other potential causes for the challenges you are experiencing. 
We can also recommend appropriate support elsewhere, and access to the inclusive technologies in the software hub. You are welcome to return to discuss matters further in the future.  
Appointments