How to decide what you need

Studying with the OU may involve

• reading course material
• producing written work (e.g. assignments, essays, reports, examination scripts)
• using multimedia
• making notes (e.g. at tutorials and day schools)
• using a computer
• taking part in tutorials
• attending residential school.

Some of these activities may be quite demanding for some students; the support you need will depend on your circumstances. We provide a range of services and resources to help make your studies easier. It is important to think carefully about the ones you choose.

Can you get a Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA)?

Find out if you are eligible by taking this short DSA eligibility quiz. DSAs can help pay for the costs of services and equipment to assist you in your studies. If you are DSA eligible the University will only provide study support that cannot be provided by a DSA.

Have you chosen a course?

Choose the course you'd like to study - go to Study at the OU and read the details in the individual course description. This will give you an idea of what type of work you will be doing, and under the heading 'If you have a disability or additional requirements' there's information about the types of course materials used and the alternative formats in which they are offered, which may suit your needs. Also mentioned are any aspects of the course that might be difficult for students with particular disabilities: for example students may need to access audio or visual material, attend a residential school, or take an examination.

Do you need course materials in different formats?

If you do need different types of format for your course material, go to accessible course materials and enter the course code. You will see what formats are additionally available for that course. If what you need is not listed there, contact us to find out about your options.

Do you require support?

Find out whether you are able to get financial support for your studies to help pay for study costs or personal assistance, or perhaps you can get equipment on loan from the OU. If your course includes an examination or a residential school, find out what is available.

If you know..

• what types of study the course entails
• what formats are available for course materials
• what equipment or other support could help you

once you are registered on an OU course you can request services using the relevant form below.