What to Observe During a College Tour: A Neurodiverse Student’s Guide

MAIA Education
Jan 23
2 min read

College tours can be exciting, but also overwhelming. For neurodiverse students, the environment, support systems, and campus culture play a crucial role in whether a school feels like a place to thrive. This guide helps students and families focus on what matters most, with sensory-friendly tips and questions that encourage self-advocacy.

Academic Support & Flexibility

Learning accommodations: Ask about the disability services office. What’s the process for getting accommodations like extended time, note-taking support, or quiet testing spaces?
Executive function support: Are there coaches, workshops, or peer mentors who help with time management and organization?
Class formats: Are there options for asynchronous learning, recorded lectures, or smaller discussion-based classes?
Faculty awareness: Do professors receive training on neurodiversity? Is there openness to different communication styles?

Sensory Environment & Campus Flow

Noise levels: Are common areas loud or calm? Visit dining halls, libraries, and dorm lounges during peak hours.
Lighting and design: Are buildings bright and busy or more subdued? Look for quiet corners and low-stimulation study spaces.
Crowd density: Is the campus bustling or more spread out? How do students navigate between classes?
Dorm options: Are there single rooms or quiet housing communities available?

Social Life & Belonging

Affinity groups: Are there clubs or communities for neurodiverse students?
Social expectations: Is the culture extroverted, laid-back, activist-driven, or academically intense?
Peer support: Ask students how they find friends, decompress, and manage stress.
Inclusivity signals: Look for sensory-friendly events, quiet zones, or signage that affirms neurodiversity.

Daily Routines & Independence

Dining options: Are there predictable routines, visual menus, or quiet dining spaces?
Transportation: Is it easy to navigate campus and nearby areas independently?
Mental health resources: Are counselors trained in neurodivergent needs? Is there a waitlist?
Safety and structure: Are there clear systems for emergencies, roommate conflicts, or academic stress?

Questions to Ask

To students:
- “What helps you stay organized or manage your schedule?”
- “Are professors flexible if you need a different way to learn?”
To staff:
- “How do you support students who struggle with transitions or sensory overload?”
- “What’s the process for getting accommodations and how supported is it?”