Heriot-Watt University is committed to equal opportunities for all students and staff. In meeting this commitment, the University will strive to ensure that disabled students and staff are both given appropriate advice and support throughout their University career. The details of the advice and support for students are given on this page.
All undergraduate and postgraduate applicants are selected for their ability to successfully pursue a course of academic study and therefore academic ability is the principal criterion for selection. Prospective students who state on their UCAS form that they have a disability are encouraged to visit the University campus of their choice and meet the Disability Adviser, as well as the key contact staff in their chosen department.
Every student who is offered a place at Heriot-Watt University is sent information on the Disability Service. All disabled students who have informed the University are contacted before the beginning of their course and invited to visit the University. This enables a student to meet with key members of staff to discuss their particular needs and to assess the layout and accessibility of the campus. Such contact ensures that appropriate support, as far as possible, is arranged before the start of the academic year and that students are aware of the full range of technical and other support available to them.
The University recognises that in registering disabled students for degree courses it has a responsibility for ensuring that they have access to the same quality of educational provision as non-disabled students. In addressing this responsibility, the University is aware of the need to provide alternative teaching and learning approaches for disabled students on an individual basis whilst maintaining academic standards.
Additional curricular materials are provided on request to disabled students. This would include lecture hand-outs or copies of overhead material used during lectures.
Well established procedures are in place for making alternative examination and assessment arrangements where required. Depending on individual need, a range of alternative methods may be employed including:
Students seeking alternative examination arrangements will be asked to provide a medical certificate or other relevant document confirming their disability.
Academic Schools and the Examinations Office require notification from the Disability Adviser of any student known to need alternative examination arrangements, well in advance. The deadlines for Examination information are as follows:
The University operates an anonymous marking scheme for all students. Students who require special consideration of their work due to their disability will receive stickers from the exam venue which they should place on the front of their examination script. This will alert examiners to disregard poor writing, spelling and grammar in the marking process. Students are also advised to make themselves known to the invigilator prior to the start of an examination so that the appropriate assistance may be given.
Visit the DisabledGo website for detailed information about disabled access to Heriot-Watt University.
Would you need assistance in the event of an emergency evacuation? If so, please complete a personal emergency evacuation plan (PEEP).
Whether you are visiting the Edinburgh Campus by air, train or road, you will find the guidance you need here.
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