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Improvements for students with disabilities: basic adjustments and a central contact point

Ronald Tilleman

Improvements for students with disabilities: basic adjustments and a central contact point

Published on 03-02-2026 15:00
Hearing protection during an exam, extra time to complete an exam or screen-reading software - if you have a disability, you may need adjustments like these in order to attend lectures, participate in tutorials or sit exams. The UvA aims to support students with a disability, neurodivergence, chronic illness or dyslexia so that everyone can fully participate in education.
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New policyExternal link and input from students and staff have made two important things possible, making it easier for students to apply for the required support: lists of basic adjustments and a central contact point.

Lists of basic adjustments

One important change is the introduction of two lists of basic adjustments: one for examinations and one for education. These lists provide students with a disability, neurodivergence, or chronic illness with a clear overview of the facilities and forms of support offered by the UvA. Students can see at a glance which adjustments are available, for example for those who need to take medication during an exam, require additional toilet breaks, or use an aid such as a magnifying glass.

Central contact point

Feedback from students and staff indicated, among other things, a need for a single point of contact for applying for adjustments. The UvA is therefore working on developing a system through which students can submit their requests and automatically receive updates on the progress of their application. 

Involvement and evaluation

Students from the advocacy association UvA IDEAs, the Central Student Council (CSR), and research conducted among students by the UvA Panel made important contributions to developing the policy and the new approach. The policy will be evaluated annually and improved based on practical experience and feedback from students and staff.

Read more about studying with a disability.