Late diagnosis refers to situations where a disability, learning difference, or developmental condition is identified later than expected. This can occur when symptoms are misunderstood, masked, or attributed to other factors such as behaviour or personality. Late diagnosis is particularly common among girls, racialised students, and individuals with high cognitive ability whose strengths may hide areas of difficulty. Delayed identification can mean that students spend years navigating school without appropriate supports, which can affect learning, self-esteem, and mental health.