- Joining the University
- Support from student wellbeing
- Managing your academic work
- Getting around campus
- Accessibility guides
- Making friends and talking about your disability
Joining the University
Current students recommend:
- Make sure you have everything you need for registration, such as identification documents. Having these ready can help you complete registration in one visit.
- If standing in queues is difficult because of your disability, contact Student Wellbeing before registration. They may be able to arrange support.
- Consider visiting the Freshers' Fair to find out about opportunities, services and student groups.
- University campuses can be much busier than school or college. It may feel overwhelming at first, but most students quickly adjust.
Support from student wellbeing
Current students recommend:
- Contact Student Wellbeing before you start your course. This can help you understand the support available and put plans in place early.
- Apply for a Study Needs Agreement (SNA) if you're eligible. This can help ensure you receive the adjustments and support you need.
- Student Wellbeing offers a wide range of services and ongoing support throughout your studies.
- If you are eligible for Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA), apply before starting university if possible. The assessment can help identify useful support, equipment and strategies.
- If your needs change or you experience difficulties during your studies, contact Student Wellbeing again. Your support arrangements can be reviewed and updated.
Managing your academic work
Current students recommend:
- The start of university can feel overwhelming because of the amount of new information, increased independence and social opportunities.
- Don't worry if it takes a few weeks to settle into university life.
- You will be expected to complete more independent study than you may have done at school or college, including reading and research.
- Set aside regular study time and try to stick to a routine.
- Make use of any specialist support, equipment or software available through Disabled Students' Allowance, such as reading or mind-mapping tools.
- If approved, use a recording device to help capture information from lectures and support your learning.
- Take time to familiarise yourself with Canvas (the virtual learning environment) and any technology you will use during your course.
- If adjustments linked to your Study Needs Agreement are not in place, speak up and contact Student Wellbeing for support.
Getting around campus
Current students recommend:
- Give yourself time to learn your way around campus and locate teaching rooms and facilities.
- If you experience difficulties with accessible routes or facilities, such as lift outages, contact Student Wellbeing for advice and support.
- If you need step-free or accessible routes, consider visiting campus before your course starts to familiarise yourself with the layout.
- Allow extra travel time between locations, especially during your first few weeks.
Accessibility guides
You can find detailed accessibility information for University buildings and spaces through the University of Hertfordshire Accessibility Guide on the AccessAble website and app.
The guides include information on:
- Teaching buildings and learning spaces
- Libraries and sports facilities
- Student accommodation
- Bus routes across campus
- Accessible parking and toilets
- Step-free access and ramps
- Hearing loops and Braille signage
- Walking distances and route information
These guides can help you plan journeys around campus with confidence and reduce uncertainty when visiting new locations.
Making friends and talking about your disability
Current students recommend:
- University provides many opportunities to meet people through classes, group work, societies and part-time employment.
- You do not need to attend clubs or bars to make friends. There are many other ways to build connections.
- Whether you tell friends about your disability is your personal choice.
- If you feel comfortable sharing, friends can become an important support network.
- Many students experience similar challenges during university, and talking with others can help you feel supported and understood.