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Specific Learning Differences FAQ
We are committed to providing a supportive and proactive service for our students who have a Specific Learning Difference (SpLD).
A SpLD is a difference in the way we learn and process information. Each person with a SpLD has a unique combination of strengths and challenges.
Individuals with an SpLD can have significant compensatory strengths which complement higher-level study. Conversely, the challenges experienced may impact learning, study and engagement.
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Sometimes, an individual’s profile of learning does not fit neatly into any of these diagnostic categories. Also, some individuals may experience more than one SpLD.
Please get in touch with us if you either have a diagnosed SpLD, or if you think you may have a learning difference which has not yet been investigated.
More detailed information about the assessment process can be found within the drop-down menus below.
With a diagnosis of a SpLD, you can apply for the DSA (Disabled Student Allowance) Your diagnostic report is used as evidence of your learning difference. The DSA process can be long and so, if you have your report, do not wait until you arrive at university to apply for it.
If you are diagnosed with a SpLD while at university, we can help you with your DSA application, securing your exam recommendations and additional support. International students are not eligible for the DSA, but we can discuss further options with you.
Your evidence should be a full diagnostic report carried out by a qualified and registered Specialist Teacher/Assessor or Psychologist. At school or college, you may have been assessed for access arrangements and given a JCQ Access Arrangement (Form 8). While this provides useful information, universities do not accept a Form 8 as sufficient evidence of your learning difference, as it does not contain formal diagnosis.
Diagnostic reports must be in English. All evidence written in another language must be translated by a qualified transcription service and formally authenticated as such. If you have questions about the suitability of your evidence, please email us.
If you think you could have a specific learning difficulty we can signpost and support you with an assessment. The process may vary depending on the campus at which you are studying. For example, at the Ipswich campus, we use a combination of in-house assessors and external assessors. At other campuses, they may have different arrangements.
Please contact the disability team at your campus for more information.
If you have previously received a diagnosis of an SpLD, you are encouraged to send a copy of the report to us so that we can provide advice and guidance about organising support with your studies.
If you think you may have a SpLD, but have no formal diagnosis, we can help you to arrange an appointment with one of our assessors. For more information, please contact us at spldteam@uos.ac.uk.
Please be aware that we are unable to offer an assessment until you have enroled on the course.
If you have previously received a diagnosis of an SpLD, you are encouraged to send a copy of the report to us so that we can provide advice and guidance about organising support with your studies.
If you think you may have a learning difference, please contact us so that we can arrange an assessment of your learning needs.