Reasonable adjustments enable you to participate in the academic assessment process on a fair basis, and according to your preferences. Find out how to arrange reasonable adjustments that work for you.

Reasonable adjustments allow you to fully participate in learning, assessment, university facilities and services. When it comes to assessments, for example, a reasonable adjustment could be making a video presentation instead of presenting in person, or having extra time in an exam, or having regular rest breaks during lectures, rather than in front of a group. Under the UK Equality Act 2010, reasonable adjustments are required where students with disabilities experience substantial disadvantage in comparison with non-disabled people.  Universities have an anticipatory duty to provide reasonable adjustments for students. This means your university needs to plan ahead and address any barriers that may potentially affect your studies and well-being.

Some universities and some courses have risen to this challenge by putting in place systems that are on offer to all students, whether they have a formal diagnosis or not. Examples are audio-recording lectures, or providing alternative assessments. However, currently this is the exception rather than the norm, and the more established route is to offer individual reasonable adjustments for specific requirements.

We recommend meeting with an adviser before the beginning of term for a ‘transition appointment’. During this appointment an accessibility adviser can talk you through the transition to university including the independence, routine & expectations. They can also answer any questions you may have & signpost you to relevant teams.

Students do not need a formal diagnosis to meet with an adviser. The team can work with students to seek diagnoses & support both formal & working diagnoses.

Accessibility Advisor appointments – what to expect | Ask Herts | University of Hertfordshire

• Be as open as possible, our accessibility advisers are here to help & support you – the more you share the more we can help!
• Work with your accessibility adviser to discus adjustments individually tailored to you & your needs.
• You may wish to have a joint meeting with your accessibility adviser & a member of your programme team before the start of term or at any point throughout your studies to discuss support queries & concerns.
• Remember that the accessibility team is always there to support you, but it is important to note that certain degree programmes are bound by core competencies & professional standards.
• Discuss with your accessibility adviser your preferred method of communication in order for you to best access the support you need.

The Equality Challenge Unit has published guidance on reasonable adjustments to assist universities in planning and implementing them: http://www.ecu.ac.uk/publications/managing-reasonable-adjustments-in-higher-education/