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Posted May 28, 2014

Things to Check as a Disabled Postgrad

As a disabled student, you have already proved that you have what it takes to undertake high-level study. Progressing to postgraduate learning is an exciting next step. There are many postgraduate options available, so take time to think about which is best for you. Once you have decided on your course, you need to consider some external factors as well. Whatever your disability, universities are geared up to offer the support you need. However, it pays to check out some things in advance, so here are a few checkpoints:

What support is available for disabled students?

Find out exactly what support is offered by your prospective university - all have disability advisors to help you. Ask how will the support offered meet your individual needs? Can they help you to apply for funding such as the Disability Students Allowance (DSA), and do they have their own sources of funding?

What help is provided so that you can access your course?

Depending on your disability, you may need additional help to access your learning, especially if your course has a taught element. For example, you may need study materials provided in Braille, or perhaps software that can read written texts aloud for you.

What communication support is available?

You may need the help of another person to gain the best from your studies. If you are hearing impaired, you may need someone to sign for you on a taught Masters course, or perhaps you may need an amanuensis to write for you. If accessing the library is problematic, then someone may be able to assist you.

What about exams and assessments?

Universities must put in place reasonable adjustments to help you to be assessed on the same basis as other students. This could include additional help in practical tasks such as lab tests, or giving extra time (including rest breaks), or providing a reader, for exams. Your college will have had plenty of experience supporting disabled students and will be able to offer excellent suggestions for meeting your needs.

How can accommodation be made accessible?

Many things can be done to ensure that your living accommodation and the university campus are accessible. This could include ensuring you can stay in an accessible hall of residence for the duration of your course, catering for specific dietary requirements, or installing special equipment such as a hoist in your bedroom. Parking may be made available for Blue Badge holders. If you choose to live off-campus, or need to travel longer distances, then there may be an accessible shuttle bus or something similar available to help.

Taking your studies to the next level with a postgraduate course can be a wonderfully exciting opportunity, and one not to be missed. But do remember that it takes time to put an effective support plan in place for you, so get in touch with the disabled student support centre as soon as possible to discuss your situation. Every person is unique, so the support you need will also be unique, but by planning ahead and checking carefully, you will be well set up to succeed as a postgraduate student.

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