Support available

All applications to study at Heriot-Watt University are judged on academic and personal merit. Heriot-Watt University is committed to equal opportunities for all students.

Studying at university is less structured than in school or college. It involves an emphasis on the ability to study independently. This makes demands on a student’s planning, organisation, and time management skills. Other skills that are developed at university include working in partnership with other people in groups, laboratories or on projects; working on major pieces of work such as a dissertation; giving presentations individually or as part of a group and working to deadlines.

The disability service can provide a range of practical support and advice whether you are a prospective, new or current student.

Services we provide

• Assessment of your individual support needs
• Advising on alternative examination arrangements
• Assistance in finding personal helpers for reading, scribing, tutoring
• Initial screening for dyslexia
• Arranging for Educational Psychologist assessments
• Support with making an application for Disabled Students' Allowance (for eligible UK students only)
• Assessments of technology requirements and ongoing technical support
• Arranging study skills support

Heriot-Watt staff and resources

HWU offer a range of resources designed to make students feel as supported as possible during their studies. These include, but are not limited to:

• Disability Advisor - the student’s Disability Advisor is the primary point of contact for assessing/arranging support for the student
• School Disability Contact (SDC) - the SDC liaises with School staff to ensure that the recommended support and adjustments are put in place. The SDC can advocate on behalf of the student if they are experiencing any problems
• Personal Tutor - each student is assigned a personal tutor who is their first point of contact for any academic or personal issues they may experience throughout their time at university
• One to One study strategy sessions - to help students build on any academic skills they feel they would benefit from
• Counselling Service/mental health mentoring - to support emotional wellbeing
• Academic Skills Workshops – Skills Hub webinars are a range of workshops which are free to attend and are available throughout the academic year. These include practical strategies appropriate for a range of topics including referencing, academic writing and critical thinking
• Get Set for Studying workshops will be offered to you at the start of your studies. They offer tips for good organisation and time management (vital for successful university study) and introduce assistive software and programmes that will help you get off to a great start
• Support for Canvas (our virtual learning environment) – support is available online to help you to navigate and personalise Canvas
• Training and access to assistive software which offers support with the organisation of notes and ideas, proofreading and concentration issues

It is important that prospective students contact the Disability Service at HWU as early as possible after accepting the offer of a place to study here.

We need time to assess your needs and arrange any relevant support. Support doesn’t happen automatically; students have to speak to a Disability Advisor to implement support. You can bring someone with you to meetings if you choose.

Support available for specific disabilities 

We offer a range of information, advice and support for students with disabilities: