Disability Disclosure and Support Systems at Ashoka University: What Applicants Should Know

Ashoka University’s admission process encourages applicants to bring their whole selves into the application — and that includes students with disabilities, learning differences, chronic conditions, or mental health concerns.

In fact, Ashoka is one of the few Indian universities to have a dedicated Office of Learning Support (OLS) and a Centre for Wellbeing (CfW) built into the campus ecosystem.

In this blog, we break down:

• Why disclosing a disability is safe and often empowering

• What support services are available at Ashoka

• How the university handles accommodations and confidentiality

• What to write in the support disclosure section of the application

Is It Mandatory to Disclose a Disability?

No. Disclosure is entirely voluntary.

However, if you need academic accommodations, mobility support, assistive technology, or a mental health support plan, Ashoka strongly encourages you to disclose this in the relevant section of the form.

Your disclosure will not affect your chances of admission negatively. The admissions team evaluates all candidates holistically and confidentially.

What Is the “Support Section” in the Application Form?

Ashoka’s application includes a section titled Support for Learning, Physical, or Mental Health Conditions. It asks if:

• You’ve been diagnosed with a learning or physical disability

• You’ve received accommodations (like extra time) in school

• You may need support services on campus

You can briefly explain your needs and upload a recent medical or psychological assessment, if available. (PDF format preferred, under 2MB.)

What Happens After You Disclose?

If you’re admitted, the Office of Learning Support (OLS) reaches out to create an Individualized Support Plan. This might include:

• Additional time for exams or assignments

• Note-taking assistance or assistive software

• Modified housing if needed

• Access to a learning mentor or coach

Every plan is created in collaboration with you, and remains confidential.

Key Support Systems Available at Ashoka University

Support Office	Services Offered
Office of Learning Support (OLS)	Academic accommodations, learning mentors, accessibility coordination
Centre for Wellbeing (CfW)	Free counselling, therapy, mental health workshops
Student Affairs Team	Residential life support, emergency response, peer mentoring
Faculty Office Hours	One-on-one time with professors to clarify academic content

Ashoka also organizes neurodiversity awareness programs, inclusive leadership training, and peer support communities.

Who Should Consider Disclosing?

Students with:

• Dyslexia, ADHD, autism, or other learning disabilities

• Physical impairments that impact campus mobility or access

• Chronic illnesses (e.g., epilepsy, diabetes) that may require on-campus care

• Mental health conditions (e.g., depression, anxiety, OCD) requiring periodic therapy or flexibility

• History of receiving IEP accommodations or extra support in school

Even if you’re not currently receiving support, but believe you might benefit from it, it’s worth sharing.

How Does This Impact Admissions?

It doesn’t. Ashoka’s admissions committee does not discriminate based on disability status.

If anything, disclosure provides helpful context — especially if your academic record was affected by health or cognitive challenges.

Many students who disclose go on to become campus leaders, scholars, and change-makers at Ashoka. The goal is to set you up for success, not gatekeep it.

Final Thoughts

Disclosing a disability at Ashoka University is not about declaring a limitation — it’s about affirming your right to a supportive, accessible, and empowering educational environment.

Ashoka is built to support diverse learners. If you’ve overcome challenges or require assistance to thrive, this is your moment to be seen and supported — without fear.