In short
- DARE (Disability Access Route to Education) helps school leavers with a disability, including ADHD, get into college.
- You need evidence of your ADHD from a psychologist or a consultant psychiatrist, plus an Educational Impact Statement from your school.
- The ADHD report must be less than 3 years old and follow the DSM criteria.
What is DARE?
DARE is a third level admissions scheme in Ireland for school leavers whose disability has affected their education. Eligible students can compete for a number of college places on reduced points, and receive extra support once they start, such as exam accommodations, assistive technology and learning support.
DARE is for school leavers under 23 applying through the CAO. Students who are not eligible for DARE, including mature students, can still get support from their college’s disability service once they enrol.
How to apply
- Apply to the CAO and tick the box to say you have a disability
- Complete the Supplementary Information Form, including the Educational Impact Statement completed with your school
- Submit your evidence of disability by the deadline
Deadlines are usually early in the year. Check the current dates on the Access College website, as missing a deadline can mean you are not considered.
Evidence of ADHD for DARE
For ADHD, DARE accepts evidence from a psychologist or a consultant psychiatrist. The report should:
- Be dated within 3 years of the application
- Give a clear diagnosis of ADHD based on DSM criteria
- List the tests and assessment tools used
- Be signed by the clinician, with their professional details
DARE publishes an Evidence of Disability form and guidance. Always read the current guidance before your assessment, so your clinician can make sure the report meets the requirements.
The Educational Impact Statement
As well as medical evidence, DARE needs to see how your ADHD has affected your schooling. Your school completes the Educational Impact Statement, describing the impact on areas such as concentration, organisation and exam performance. Talk to your guidance counsellor early.
Getting an ADHD assessment for DARE
Our ADHD assessments are for adults aged 18 and over. Our reports are written by a PSI registered psychologist, use the DIVA-5 structured interview based on DSM-5 criteria, and list the assessment tools used. If you are applying to DARE, tell us when you book so we can make sure your report includes what DARE asks for.
Support once you are in college
Every college has a disability or access service. Register with them as early as possible, even if you did not apply through DARE. Supports can include extra exam time, a quieter exam room, note taking help and study skills sessions.
Sources: Access College (DARE and HEAR); CAO; AHEAD.
This guide is general information to help you understand your options. It is not medical, legal or financial advice. Rules and benefits can change, so please check with the organisation concerned. If you are in crisis, call 112 or 999, or contact Samaritans free on 116 123.