Support in assessments
The University has special assessment regulations to ensure that, as far as possible, students with particular disabilities and long-term medical conditions are not disadvantaged during assessment (exams and other forms of assessment).
What exam/assessment support is available?
Individual arrangements for exams and other types of assessment may include additional time for an exam or piece of coursework, use of a computer, the availability of sheltered facilities, the use of tape, Braille or other facilities, or the employment of an amanuensis (scribe).
If you're a dyslexic student, visit our Dyslexic students webpage for more information on available support.
Note that while appropriate accommodations for disabilities can be made, you will still be expected to meet specific academic requirements to achieve a qualification.
Am I eligible for support during exams?
If you have a disability or Specific Learning Difficulty and believe you may be eligible for individual exam arrangements, get in touch with a Disability Adviser or Dyslexia Learning Adviser.
You will need to submit your request for individual exam arrangements to Disability Learning Support at least six weeks before the exam period commences. If you do not submit your request within this timeframe, we cannot guarantee any individual arrangements. You will also need to include comprehensive, up-to-date medical or diagnostic evidence with your request.
If you have a permanent condition, any agreed exam arrangements will remain in place for the duration of your course.
If you have a long-term condition/disability, which by their very nature fluctuate, for example, MS, ME, HIV/AIDS, RSI, you will need to supply independent documentary evidence for each assessment period. All medical evidence should be current and explicit.
Unforeseen or temporary difficulties
If you encounter a temporary difficulty, eg limb fracture, you should contact your School Registry Office as soon as possible to request any special exam arrangements.
If you’re unable to use public transport to get in and out of the University, you can apply to the Access to Learning Fund for assistance with your additional travel costs. Some Local Authorities also provide assistance in such cases. Contact your Local Authority directly to enquire.
If you experience serious, unforeseen and unpreventable circumstances that prevent your attending an assessment or submitting a piece of coursework, you may need to submit a Mitigating Circumstances Claim.
A disability or Specific Learning Difficulty is not in itself valid grounds for submission of a Mitigating Circumstances Claim, as the purpose of the special assessment regulations is to ensure that, as far as possible, the needs of students with disabilities/SpLDs are met. However, if you encounter a sudden and unexpected relapse in your condition, then you may be able to make a claim for mitigating circumstances.
Note that all students, particularly those with chronic or long-term conditions, have a responsibility to evaluate whether they can comply with the requirements of their chosen course.
