Program for Academic Learning Skills (PALS)

The Program for Academic Learning Skills (PALS) is a fee-based support program at Hofstra University designed for students with learning disabilities (LD) and/or ADHD. For more than 30 years, PALS has provided eligible students with individualized, one-on-one support focused on academic skills, executive functioning, self-advocacy, and a successful transition to college life.

PALS is designed for first-year incoming students who have a documented learning disability and/or ADHD, and have already been admitted to the University through the standard admission process.  PALS support is in addition to disability related accommodations.

PALS has a limited number of seats available for each incoming cohort, that are filled on a first come basis for those admitted, reserved with an Undergraduate Enrollment Deposit.

Students enrolled in PALS meet weekly for a 50 minute session with an assigned Learning Specialist. Sessions are individualized and focus on academic skills, organization, study strategies, notetaking abilities, assignment management, executive functioning, campus resource utilization, and social adjustment. Students typically work with the same Learning Specialist for the academic year.

PALS Boost

• PALS Boosts are optional, short supplemental sessions that can be scheduled in addition to regular weekly sessions. These mini-sessions provide extra support, reinforcement, or an additional check-in when an extra touchpoint is helpful. PALS Boosts are to complement and strengthen ongoing weekly work.

Weekly Study Hall

In addition to individual sessions, PALS offers a weekly evening Study Hall with a Learning Specialist that provides:

• Structured study time
• Small group setting
• Focused writing skills support

*Study Hall is optional and designed to complement weekly coaching sessions.

Peer Mentorship Program

• First-year students are paired with an upperclass Mentor who provides intentional social engagement support, helps them navigate Hofstra’s many involvement opportunities, and facilitates mentor-led events that foster connection, relationships, and active participation in campus life.

Students enrolled in PALS receive priority registration each semester to support thoughtful academic planning and the intentional use of individualized accommodations.

Hofstra’s Learning Specialists are full-time professional staff with expertise in supporting college students with learning disabilities and ADHD. PALS services are delivered by professional staff rather than graduate assistants.

The PALS fee includes weekly one-on-one coaching, a personalized academic support and accommodation plan, structured supplemental time, priority registration, a peer mentor, and coordinated collaboration with the Student Access Services team.

• Program Fees
  For the 2025–2026 cohort, the PALS fee is $4,160 per semester during the first year and $2,860 per semester in subsequent years. Fees are subject to change for future cohorts.

Access@Stuyvesant Living Learning Community is a supportive residential learning community where students with disabilities and their allies live, connect, and grow together through peer support, advocacy, and shared academic and social experiences.

In order to initiate the PALS application process:

1. Select “PALS box” on your Hofstra application or email us at PALS@hofstra.edu to indicate your interest.
2. Submit up-to-date disability documentation for review (within three years):
   1. ADA Guidelines for Documentation of a Neurodiverse Disability - Learning Disability
   2. ADA Guidelines for Documentation of a Neurodiverse Disability - ADHD
3. Students must first be admitted to Hofstra University through the general admission process and then applicants will be invited for a PALS interview with Student Access Services.

Students can expect to receive their PALS determination via email within five to seven business days following the interview, unless a second interview or additional documentation is requested.