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College Students with Disabilities Surge Over 50% in a Decade

3/17/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The number of college students reporting disabilities rose by over 50% in a decade, per New York Times analysis of data.
The rise includes ADHD and autism, increasing demand for accommodations like extended test times.
Harvard University and the University of Chicago reported 21% of students with disabilities in 2024, up from under 3% in 2015.
Cornell University also notes increases, while campuses cite concerns about misuse of the system.

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Story summary

The number of college students reporting disabilities rose by over 50% in a decade, per New York Times analysis of data.
The rise includes ADHD and autism, increasing demand for accommodations like extended test times.
Harvard University and the University of Chicago reported 21% of students with disabilities in 2024, up from under 3% in 2015.
Cornell University also notes increases, while campuses cite concerns about misuse of the system.