Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, Dysgraphia, Dyscalculia

Dyslexia is a type of specific learning difference (SpLD) which can affect reading, spelling, writing, short-term memory, sequencing and processing information speed. Other SpLDs include Dyspraxia, Dysgraphia and Dyscalculia.

The impact of a SpLD may vary depending on the tasks you're undertaking. Therefore, when studying you might find that you have strengths in some areas of university life but challenges in other areas.

If you're a current student please visit our UDo pages.

Frequently asked questions

At the University of Derby, our programmes are designed to be inclusive, so you'll receive the support you need throughout your studies. Please inform your tutor about your dyslexia so they can discuss with you the following inclusive teaching practices: 

  • Presentation slides or lecture notes available before the lecture: This will help you familiarise yourself with the lecture content and make notes in advance, so you don't have to write down information that's already provided. 
  • Recorded lectures (where appropriate): You can review the lectures later to catch any information you missed or need to hear again. 
  • Approaching your tutor: Feel free to ask your tutor for more detailed information on assignments or to get verbal feedback on assessments. 
  • Alternative assessments (when appropriate): Your tutor can discuss different assessment options that might suit you better. 

If you're on an apprenticeship programme please email this to als@blc.ac.uk

In Higher Education, you'll need a full diagnostic report completed by a qualified specialist to access support. If you think you might have a SpLD, have lost a previous diagnostic report, and want to be formally assessed, we can help. 

You'll need to complete a pre-assessment screening called Quickscreen, which will identify if you have any indicators of a SpLD. 

A Step-by-Step Guide to the Process from Start to Finish
Step 1: Submit a QuickScreen Request Form

Start by filling out our online form. Once submitted, our team will review your request and get back to you within 5 working days.

Step 2: Complete the QuickScreen Test

You’ll receive a link and password to access the online QuickScreen test, designed to check for dyslexia indicators. Complete the test within 10 working days to move to the next step.

Step 3: Get Advice Based on Your Results

Our Disability Advisor team will review your QuickScreen results and provide tailored advice on your next steps. Please allow up to 5 working days for this.

Step 4: Book Your Diagnostic Assessment

Schedule a Diagnostic Assessment with one of our qualified assessors. Choose between face-to-face or remote options. 

Step 5: Take the Next Steps After Your Diagnosis

Once you’ve received your diagnostic report, our Disability Advisor team will guide you on what to do next, including how to apply for Disabled Students' Allowances (DSA).

 

The cost of a SpLD Assessment through Derby Uni is £400, however:

  • If you're booking a SpLD Assessment prior to enrolling with us, you'll need to pay the full amount of £400 directly to the assessor when you have your test. Once you have enrolled on your course and provided your receipt number, we'll reimburse you £350, based on eligibility.
  • If you're a current, enrolled student (in receipt of your Student ID card) and you have 6 months or longer left on your course, you'll pay £50 towards the cost of the Assessment. The University would pay the remaining cost of £350. 
  • Please note that students on apprenticeship programmes aren't eligible for the SpLD diagnostic testing. Please contact your employer regarding advice about getting tested.

When you've got your diagnostic report back, please save a copy of your full report. We'll advise you of the next steps.

Make sure you apply for funded support from the Disabled Student Allowance (DSA). Your report can be used as evidence for your application. 

Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA)

As well as reasonable adjustments, you might also be eligible for support through the Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA). 

The DSA may fund additional support that students benefit from. This could include specialist software/equipment and a specialist study skills tutor.

Our experience shows students really benefit from DSA support. It can take up to three months to get your DSA, so apply for it as soon as you have applied for a course.

Learn more about DSA and start your application

A student's perspective

Hear about Sarah’s experience as a student with dyslexia:

Sarah Chapman, BA (Hons) Education Studies specialising in special educational needs and disabilities talks about her course