Studying with a disability
What is a disability
A disability is a physical or mental disability or other long-term limitation. This could be for example:
- a visual, auditory or physical disability;
- a learning disability (for example dyslexia);
- a chronic or psychological illness.
Facilities and support
Leiden University offers a range of different facilities and support depending on your needs. Click on your disability below for more information.
The Fenestra Disability Centre
The Fenestra Disability Centre provides advice on all disability-related issues. As well as assisting students with requests for extra facilities, Fenestra can also offer financial advice and give general information on finding your way both within and outside the university.
Contact Fenestra as early as possible
We encourage you to contact Fenestra as early as possible if you would like to arrange study adaptations or use Fenestra’s services. You do not need to wait until you start your studies.
Your disability
AD(H)D
Autism spectrum disorder
Chronic illness
Dyslexia
Hearing disability
Speech disability
Visual disability
Other
Disabilities
Students with physical or learning disabilities are entitled to extra facilities during their studies. For example extra time for exams, the use of a laptop or later deadlines. Students who have a (learning) disability should contact the Fenestra Disability Center of Leiden University in Leiden. The specialists there will assess the situation and advise the LUC Board of Examiners and Study Advisor on the extra facilities the student is entitled to. The Board of Examiners will then decide which facilities will be allowed, usually fully accepting the recommendations from Fenestra.
With the decision of the Board of Examiners, the student can apply for a Special Facilities Card at Fenestra. This card states which extra facilities the student is entitled to and should be shown to the instructor of each course a student takes. The Study Advisor can help to arrange special facilities.
Fenestra is a part of the Student Support Services at Plexus Student Centre in Leiden. Find more information at the General tab.