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University or college life can present extra challenges if you're living with a disability or health condition. Fortunately, UK law protects your right to access support to help you thrive in your studies

These adjustments can support a range of needs, including physical and mental health conditions and invisible disabilities.

As Josie Lovett, a disability adviser at the University of Warwick, explains, she supports students with a range of conditions, including:

• anxiety
• Autistic Spectrum Condition
• Crohn's Disease
• D/deafness
• dyslexia
• Epilepsy
• Schizophrenia.

It's important to note that this is not an exhaustive list.

Reasonable adjustments aren't about gaining an unfair advantage. Their goal is to create an inclusive environment where everyone has equal access to learning and can reach their potential.

What are examples of reasonable adjustments?

Since everyone's needs are different, adjustments should be tailored to your specific situation. Common examples include:

• access to note-takers, specialist tutors, or counsellors
• accessible classrooms, buildings, equipment, or accommodation
• assistive technologies (laptops, screen readers, magnification software, hearing loops, scribes)
• course materials in alternative formats (large print, Braille, audio)
• extra breaks or extended time during exams
• flexibility in assessment methods
• guidance for markers not to penalise spelling, handwriting, or language expression.

If you're learning remotely or through blended learning, adjustments may include:

• alternative ways to participate in live sessions
• captions or transcripts for recorded lectures
• extended deadlines for online assignments.

For example, a student with dyslexia may benefit from text-to-speech software and clearly formatted materials, while an autistic student might prefer advance access to course content or a quiet, sensory-friendly study space.

Reasonable adjustments also extend beyond academics, covering:

• extra-curricular activities
• internships
• placements.

This might involve accessible transport or flexible working hours.

Who is entitled to reasonable adjustments?

To qualify legally for reasonable adjustments, your condition must meet the Equality Act 2010 definition of a disability. That means it must:

• be a physical or mental impairment
• have a substantial and long-term negative effect on your ability to carry out everyday activities.

You don't need a formal diagnosis to begin discussions with your university's disability team. They can help explore support options based on your current challenges.

However, for certain formal adjustments or funding support, you may need to provide evidence from a qualified medical or mental health professional.

If you're unsure whether your condition qualifies, your university's disability team is the best place to start. They can advise you on next steps and available support.

How do I access adjustments?

Most universities and colleges have a dedicated disability or learning support service. You can usually begin the process by contacting:

• a disability adviser or officer
• a disability co-ordinator
• a learning support adviser (in further education).

You'll typically need to provide documentation, such as medical reports or professional assessments. While the institution covers the cost of implementing adjustments, you may need to pay for any supporting documents from healthcare providers.

For help identifying the support you might need, try the .

You may also be eligible for Disabled Students' Allowances (DSA) - funding to cover specialist equipment, software, or personal support. DSA can make it easier to confirm your needs and get formal adjustments in place.

How do I prepare for my reasonable adjustment appointment?

Once you've booked an appointment with your university's disability services, it can help to know what to expect and how to prepare.

As Josie explains, 'when a student has an appointment, we generally agree the adjustments together and then write up the support plan, which could take a couple of hours or days. Generally, it's not a long process and reasonable adjustments can be put in place quickly.'

To help your appointment go smoothly, bring along:

• evidence of your condition
• medical assessments or reports
• notes on the challenges you're facing.

Josie explains, 'we need evidence that shows the medical condition or disability has lasted more than 12 months or is likely to and has an impact on a day-to-day basis, but we recognise that conditions don't always fit into neat boxes.'

It's also helpful to think ahead about specific academic challenges you've experienced and any support you believe might help. If you feel anxious, you can bring a friend, family member, or advocate. Many students' unions also offer peer support and dedicated disability officers.

Most students find that their universities are supportive and open to solutions. Remember, the system is there to help you succeed.

What should I say to the disability adviser?

Start by describing how your condition affects your daily life - especially when it comes to studying, learning, or completing coursework. The more specific you are, the easier it is for the adviser to identify suitable support.

During the meeting, the adviser will guide the conversation. As Josie explains, 'we'll ask what support you've had in the past and if it was helpful. We look at the evidence before we meet, and students don't have to give us lots of personal information during the appointment about the difficulties they face.

'It's a supportive discussion where we welcome questions and agree on adjustments that will be most helpful and academically viable. Reasonable adjustments are always put in place in agreement with the student, so they have a voice in the support they're offered,' she adds.

Be as specific as possible. For example, instead of saying 'I struggle to focus,' you might say, 'background noise or distractions can derail my train of thought, making it hard to complete tasks on time.' The more clearly you communicate your needs, the more effectively support can be tailored.

Your information is treated confidentially and won't be shared without your consent.

Why should I apply for reasonable adjustments?

Applying for adjustments early means support can be put in place before challenges impact your academic progress. This helps reduce stress, avoid delays, and keep you on track.

As Josie advises, 'the sooner students contact us the better, so adjustments like exam arrangements can be put in place. Often there are deadlines, so it's important to know that the support is in place, meaning they won't have to panic.'

For example, a student with ADHD might find it difficult to manage coursework without a quiet study space or time-management tools. Having this support in place from the beginning makes a big difference.

Can I change my adjustments if my condition changes?

Yes - reasonable adjustments are flexible. If your needs change, your support plan can be reviewed and updated.

Don't hesitate to reach out if you feel your current adjustments are no longer effective. Disability services are there to help you find solutions that continue to meet your needs.

What should I do if my adjustments are refused?

In rare cases, adjustments may be declined. But as Josie explains, 'it's very rare we reject reasonable adjustments, but we may offer an alternative instead. For example, instead of additional time for exams, we'll offer rest breaks.

'If a student is unhappy in any way, we'll discuss our decision and offer the opportunity to meet again to see if there have been any changes or additional evidence, which could support the student's request. Students can also talk with the disability coordinator or head of disability for further advice and support.'

If your request is turned down and you believe you qualify under the Equality Act, you have a right to ask for a clear explanation.

You can try:

• addressing concerns raised by staff
• explaining how the adjustment would work in practice
• suggesting alternatives.

If necessary, follow your institution's complaints procedure. Further steps may include:

• contacting your students' union
• submitting a formal complaint
• reaching out to
• taking your case to an education tribunal.

Find out more

• Read about diversity in the workplace.