Exams are over and it’s the long Summer break and  hopefully you are relaxing in the sunshine, waiting for your results and thinking of going to university.

It’s an exciting time but also a big change which can be stressful too.

If you are dyslexic or have had access arrangements at school and think you might be dyslexic, you can access support with your studies through the Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA). This could provide study support and assistive technology  throughout your studies and help you to succeed.

At school, a formal diagnosis isn’t needed to give you support or adjustments, but  universities  require a full diagnostic assessment from a specialist teachers/ assessor with the Assessment Practising Certificate (APC). A diagnostic assessment is  the first step towards a package of support tailored to your needs. We offer dyslexia assessments and can assess for characteristics of dyspraxia and ADHD for post 16 students and adults going to university..

Dyslexia Herts has been assessing children, young people and adults since 2011. All our experienced team have the APC which means that the report will  be recognised by universities and employers. We are aware that as a parent or a young person going to uni, it can be hard to know where to start – you can contact us and book a call to get free advice or to arrange an assessment.

The DSA can provide you with support including:

• Technology: Assistive technology can help you to study more effectively. This could include dictation or read-aloud software, or mind mapping to help with planning
• Specialist study skills support: Specialist support will be available and can help you to work to your strengths, and develop  effective study strategies
• Specialist mentoring: A mentor will help you develop ways to maintain positive mental health and ultimately feel happier and more confident while studying.
• Assistive technology training: An assistive technology trainer will teach you to use the software and equipment you have been allocated. You will learn how to use the technology and embed it alongside effective study strategies. The training will help you to get the most out of your software and equipment

It can take a while for the DSA  to be in place, so it’s best to start now, arrange an assessment  by a suitably qualified APC assessor and have everything in place as soon as possible. We can help you- we  have availability for diagnostic assessments-  online or in-person.

In the meantime, enjoy your long Summer break &  wishing you all the best for results day!

Here is some useful information

Save the Student

https://www.savethestudent.org/student-finance/disabled-students-allowances-dsa.html

This Student Needs

https://www.thisstudentneeds.co.uk/

UCAS

https://www.ucas.com/money-and-student-life/money/additional-funding/disabled-students-allowance-dsa