Students with disabilities, disabling conditions or specific learning difficulties
The University of Reading welcomes applications from students with disabilities, and access to our courses is based on academic merit.
We are committed to ensuring that you will be able to take as full a part in the academic and social life on campus as reasonably possible, and have a dedicated Disability Office which acts as a link between students, academic staff, support services, Local Education Authorities (LEAs), Access Centres and expert advisers, as necessary. Please contact the Disability Office with queries relating to any disability, dyslexia, medical or mental health condition which significantly affects study.
Visits for students with a disability
We can make arrangements for you to visit the University on an Open Day. You are also welcome to arrange a visit to the Disability Office at any time. We will be able to discuss your needs, advise on your application for the Disabled Students Allowances, show you suitably adapted accommodation (if appropriate) and liaise with the School you are applying to.
Funding support for students with a disability
UK students may be able to get funding from their Local Education Authority to pay for specialist equipment or support workers (e.g. note-takers, sign-language interpreters or ‘mobility assistants’). The Disability Office can advise on this and specialist help can normally be arranged where required.
Accommodation & Facilities
We continue to work towards providing a fully-accessible learning environment. A variety of accessible accommodation is available in our Halls of Residence. However, we cannot always guarantee that accessible accommodation will be available at short notice, so if you apply through Clearing, please contact The Disability Office to discuss the availability of suitable accommodation.
Students with Dyslexia
There is a well-established support system in place for students who have dyslexia. Students with dyslexia are permitted extra time in written examinations and there are additional provisions for coursework in most departments.
Special arrangements for examinations and other assessments can also usually be made according to your needs. e.g. extra time, a note-taker or a reader.
The Disability Office has produced guides for applicants with disabilities and dyslexia/dyspraxia, which tell you more about the facilities and services offered and about the Disabled Students Allowances. This aims to help you decide if The University of Reading is the right university for you. To request a copy, discuss your needs or arrange a visit, please contact the Disability Office ( disability@reading.ac.uk).