<p>Is it worth it to get an ADD diagnosis now, in the start of my senior year? It's always been pretty much assumed that I've had it because my mom has it and we exhibit a lot of the same traits, but we never bothered to get a diagnosis because I was innately smart and never did poorly in school. However, should I get the diagnosis now so my guidance counselor can mention it in my recs to colleges, or will it appear as if I'm trying to make up for my so-so GPA or that I'm looking for last-minute leverage into the college? Thanks!</p>
<p>Don't undergo the testing to get some kind of leverage in admissions--its effect is debatable, even possibly negative. But if you really believe you might have ADD, get the diagnosis so that you can understand your options and any attendant issues. I know more than a couple of students who waited until they were in college to be diagnosed, and they realized they should have done it earlier.</p>
<p>Agreed- if you meet criteria for a diagnosis, use an evaluationto understand your strengths, weaknesses, lerning style, and to develop compensatory strategies. Consider medication if appropriate. But don't just go in quest of a "diagnosis" without a plan to use the information in a meaningful way to help yourself.</p>
<p>I agree with Jym, regarding your reasoning for pursuing the evaluation.</p>
<p>It can backfire having people apologize for so-so GPAs anyway. So, I would surely not recommend that you use the diagnosis, if there is one, as any sort of "leverage". That approach will very likely work against you, not for you.</p>
<p>But knowledge is certainly power, so if you are looking for information to help you in the future, then it makes sense to proceed with an evaluation.</p>
<p>As far as admissions go, I am always in the minority on this issue, but I think if the school you are applying to is a big reach (based on your "low" gpa) then you have nothing to lose by getting diagnosed and disclosing the disability. Excuse or not, if ADD is the reason for your lower grades then by all means let them know. From a non-admissions viewpoint, I know several kids who ended up getting diagnosed in college and they wish they had done it sooner. One thing to consider is that some colleges will pay for your testing if you are already a student there when the process begins. It is good to understand how you learn and to have a firm grip on strategies to help you find success in college. Good luck.</p>
<p>This is a decision that should be made based on the amount of discomfort you are experiencing. If you feel at a loss or held back I would pursue this, if I were you. The issue of admissions is secondary IMO. And I would check with regional adcom at each school without disclosing name. There are also books out about which schools are ADD friendly.</p>
<p>My son has ADD, and he did not disclose this on any college apps. He had no accomodations in HS so it is not on his record. He was highly competitive for the schools he applied to, and we left it at that.</p>