Congratulations you have a place to study your specialist subject at a Higher Education Institution (HEI)! This article summarises how to access support whilst you undertake your studies.
I have had a dyslexia diagnosis, now what?
You will have received a comprehensive report outlining your individual strengths and challenges by a qualified psychologist or specialist assessor. There will also be a section of recommendations to support you. Take time to read, review and familiarise yourself with your report. You may wish to go through the report with your assessor/psychologist.
Contact your HEI student support services team and inform them that you have evidence of a need for support for dyslexia. The team will tell you how to share your report with them. Ideally discuss what support they may already offer that you can access (being familiar with your report recommendations will greatly help you to discuss reasonable adjustments, such as examination arrangements or lecture recordings).
With a formal diagnosis of dyslexia you may be eligible to apply for Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA). This is likely to be within your report recommendations. The student support services team can also tell you how to apply for DSA through Student Finance England. This fund can contribute towards the extra costs that will support you whilst studying (for example, specialist study skills support and assistive technology).
Expect to have a needs assessment to discuss what support and equipment may help you during your studies. A shorter report outlining equipment and support will be written by a needs assessor for you.
Throughout your course ensure you keep in touch with the student services team and course tutors if you have any queries or concerns.
Happy studying!