Reasonable adjustments enable you to participate in the academic assessment process on a fair basis, and according to your preferences. Find out how to arrange reasonable adjustments that work for you.

University of Suffolk

Reasonable adjustments allow you to fully participate in learning, assessment, university facilities and services. When it comes to assessments, for example, a reasonable adjustment could be making a video presentation instead of presenting in person, or having extra time in an exam, or showing your work to the tutor in private, rather than in front of a group.

Under the UK Equality Act 2010, reasonable adjustments are required where disabled students experience substantial disadvantage in comparison with non-disabled people.  Universities have an anticipatory duty to provide reasonable adjustments for students. This means your university needs to plan ahead and address any barriers that may potentially affect your studies and well-being.

How does it work?

To be eligible for individual reasonable adjustments you need to have had an autism diagnosis and have told your university about your autism. The University’s Disability and Wellbeing team then meets with you and discusses your needs. Ideally, this also involves an academic from the course you are studying.

It is important that you are actively involved in this process, and also in making decisions regarding reasonable adjustments that work for you.

Some students worry that if they have reasonable adjustments that they will be treated differently to other students. Sometimes there are concerns about confidentiality and whether other students will be aware of their support needs or disability.

On the other hand students are aware that if they have access to reasonable adjustments then they will be better supported to thrive academically.

At the University of Suffolk your Reasonable Adjustments will only be shared with your course team, exams and Learning Services. This means that only staff who you are in direct contact with will be aware of any adjustments you may require.

1. It is important that you are in communication with both the Disability and Wellbeing team, as well as your Personal Tutor.
2. When arranging your Reasonable Adjustments it is important to think about what works for you individually.
3. Think about the learning outcomes – what are alternative ways for you to evidence your knowledge and understanding?
4. The disability and wellbeing team is there to support you
5. Use the Autism&Uni Best Practice Guides as support
6. Reply promptly to all communications regarding your reasonable adjustments, to ensure support is put in place when it’s needed.

The Equality Challenge Unit has published guidance on reasonable adjustments to assist universities in planning and implementing them: http://www.ecu.ac.uk/publications/managing-reasonable-adjustments-in-higher-education/