No two student’s disability experiences are the same, and it goes without saying that each individual with dyslexia may have had very different experiences through education.
However, it’s completely understandable that any student with dyslexia may have a certain level of worry or anxiety about starting their journey into University – but this certainly doesn’t have to be the case.
We have created this article to calm your worries and summarise where and how to find the best support possible as an undergraduate studying with dyslexia.v
1) Ensure you have a doctored diagnostic assessment
If you are a student with Dyslexia, you have every right to claim an entitled Disabled Students Allowance (DSA), however you must first have a suitable diagnostic assessment. This assessment can give a clearer indication on a general state of health, how well you perform in certain tasks as well as what you think needs to change.The British Dyslexia Association (BDA) has more information about assessments for children and adults as well as instructions on how to partake in this assessment.
If you had one of these assessments a long time ago and you’re now a student, consider that an updated assessment may be necessary and in your best interest.
2) Apply for your Disabled Students Allowance (DSA) if applicable
As soon as you have your dyslexia diagnostic, you should apply for your Disabled Students Allowance (DSA) as soon as possible as it can be a very timely process!
The timescale from application to equipment organised/implemented can take up to 10 weeks, so you want to ensure this application is a priority as soon as you have your place at University.
You can apply for a DSA through your student funding body (e.g. Student Finance for England or Student Awards Agency for Scotland) who have help available to guide you through the application process.
3) Start the conversation with your university/tutors
One of the most simple yet effective ways to calm any anxious feelings regarding studying with dyslexia is to make your university/tutors aware of your diagnosis and any concerns you may be having.
This way, they can prepare any assistance needed and be considerate of any extra time or attention you may require whilst on your course.
We also recommend taking a look on your Universities website to find a student health and wellbeing content who you can speak with directly on a 1-1 basis about any health and wellbeing worries you may have prior to your move to university.
4) Find online websites/apps to support you
There are many apps available to download to support students with dyslexia , however we highly recommend Pocket: Save Stories For Later. Pocket is a fantastic app that allows you to save any online article and read it aloud, which is a great help when you have a huge stack of online referencing to do!
We understand that there are a million and one things to try and think about when preparing for University, but remember that we are here to help and take a massive stress away from furnishing your student accommodation.
We supply Complete Student Packs, Kitchen and Bedding Packs as well as essential solo items that you will not want to miss out on for your move to uni.
Shop online today and spend more time sorting out the important things and lessening your stresses!
For further information and help on living with Dyslexia, visit https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/dyslexia/living-with/.