Studying with a speech disability
Having a speech disability is a health condition that can impact your learning at Leiden University.
Speech disability can co-exist with or be an effect of other disability types such as a hearing disability or mental health issues. No matter the type, speech disability mainly affects communication. This means that studying with a speech disability may require additional effort to, for example, engage in discussions and communicate with teachers, peers and university staff. Still, many students study successfully and accomplish many things despite their diagnosis. Leiden University has a range of study adjustments available to support you throughout your studies.
Adaptations can be made to the ways in which you follow classes and take exams. Special arrangements and facilities offered by Leiden University for students with a speech disability are for example:
- If it is difficult for you to e.g. give presentations or take oral examinations, Fenestra can help you to look for suitable solutions.
- Text-to-speech software, that reads your study materials aloud whilst highlighting the text.
- Taking personal circumstances into consideration for your BSA (Binding Study Advice)
The adaptations available to you depend on your specific situation. You can discuss this with Fenestra staff.
Request adaptations: make an appointment
To arrange special adaptations for your studies, please make an appointment with Fenestra Disability Centre, Leiden University’s information centre for students with a disability.
Inform your study adviser
Make sure to let your study adviser know that you have requested advice from Fenestra.
Guidance & advisors
Fenestra Disability Centre provides advice on all disability-related matters. If you need support in other areas, there are other advisers available.
See all advisers and guidance services
Financial support
Students with a disability can incur additional expenses both during their studies and in daily life. There are a number of regulations, funds and special allowances in place that can help to ease the financial burden.
Read more about financial support
Workshops & courses
Leiden University organises workshops and courses that can help you to improve your study skills.
Take a look at the workshops and courses
Study tips
Leiden University offers study tips that can help you to study more efficiently despite any obstacles brought about by your disability.
Take a look at the study tips
Healthcare and home care
In some circumstances you might need additional healthcare or home care facilities or support.
Read more about healthcare and home care
Housing
Additional facilities in the home might be both needed and welcome if you have a disability.
Read more about housing
Legal protection
According to the Act on the Equal Treatment of the Disabled and Chronically Ill, it is strictly forbidden to discriminate on the grounds of disability and chronic illness when providing employment, accommodation, goods and services.
Read more about legal protection
Social support
Staying in contact with other students might not always be easy but it is very important. Find out about the different ways in which you can meet other students.