Exam Arrangements at University: A Guide for Students with Dyslexia, ADHD and Other Neurodivergent Conditions
If you're a student with dyslexia, ADHD, autism, dyspraxia or another neurodivergent condition, you may be entitled to exam arrangements and academic adjustments that help create a fair learning environment.
Many students are unaware of the support available to them or worry that asking for adjustments gives them an unfair advantage. In reality, reasonable adjustments exist to remove barriers and ensure that students can demonstrate their knowledge and abilities effectively.
What Are Exam Arrangements?
Exam arrangements are adjustments made to assessments to reduce the impact of a disability, specific learning difficulty or long-term condition.
Common exam arrangements include:
Extra time
Rest breaks
Use of a computer
Smaller exam rooms
Assistive technology
Alternative assessment formats
Access to lecture recordings
Extensions where appropriate
The adjustments available will vary depending on your university and individual circumstances.
Can Students with Dyslexia Get Extra Time?
Many students with dyslexia are eligible for additional time in examinations.
Dyslexia can affect reading speed, processing speed, spelling and written expression. Extra time helps ensure that students have a fair opportunity to process information and communicate their knowledge.
Universities typically require evidence of dyslexia before adjustments can be approved.
Can Students with ADHD Get Exam Adjustments?
Yes.
Students with ADHD may be eligible for a range of reasonable adjustments depending on how their symptoms affect their studies.
Examples may include:
Extra time
Rest breaks
Smaller exam venues
Flexible deadlines
Support with organisation and time management
Specialist study skills support
Every student's needs are different, so adjustments should be tailored to the individual.
What Is Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA)?
Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA) is government-funded support available to eligible higher education students in the UK.
DSA can provide access to:
Specialist study skills tuition
ADHD coaching
Assistive technology
Equipment
Non-medical helper support
DSA is not based on household income and does not need to be repaid.
What Are Reasonable Adjustments at University?
Reasonable adjustments are changes made by universities to help disabled and neurodivergent students access their education on an equal basis with their peers.
Examples include:
Individual Learning Plans (ILPs)
Exam arrangements
Alternative assessment methods
Accessible learning materials
Flexible attendance arrangements where appropriate
The goal is not to provide an advantage but to remove unnecessary barriers to learning.
What About Workplace Adjustments?
Support should not stop when you graduate.
Many neurodivergent employees benefit from workplace adjustments such as:
Flexible working arrangements
Noise-cancelling headphones
Written instructions
Additional processing time
Assistive technology
Structured meetings and agendas
Employers have a duty to consider reasonable adjustments under the Equality Act 2010.
How Neuro Support Academy Can Help
At Neuro Support Academy, we support neurodivergent students and professionals to understand their rights, access available support, and develop practical strategies for success.
Whether you need guidance with DSA, exam arrangements, university support plans or workplace adjustments, we are here to help.
Contact us today to find out how specialist neurodiversity support can help you thrive in education and beyond.