Reasonable Adjustments to Assessment at LUBS
At LUBS, we want you to succeed. We understand that sometimes the standard format of an assessment can be a real barrier to showing us what you've learned. If you feel that an assessments' format is preventing you from doing your best, you may be able to request an adjustment. See below for further information on how this process works.
What is an Assessment Adjustment?
An assessment adjustment is dependent on the competence standards of the programme and the difficulties you are experiencing. For example, it may be that you need an extension to the submission deadline for an essay and so you can use the extension request form. If you need adjustments to timed examinations please see the Exam Access Arrangements page.
The goal is to make sure you can communicate your learning without being held back by the way you're asked to do it.
If you have an ongoing / long term condition which impacts your studies you should register with Disability Services or contact them for further information about the support they can provide.
If you aren't registered with Disability Services or don't yet have adjustments in place, please contact us anyway. We can discuss your needs and advise on the best way to support you.
Some common examples of reasonable adjustments to assessments include:
- Changing a live presentation to a recorded format for students who experience social anxiety.
- Finding an alternative to group work for some neurodivergent students.
- Switching a written essay to a spoken, recorded version for visually impaired students.
These are just examples, if you are unsure please contact us, or Disability Services, for further advice.
How Do I Request a Change?
Ideally, you should contact and register with Disability Services before the following deadlines:
- Semester one deadline: 23 October 2026
- Semester two deadline: 19 February 2027
Registering early allows you to discuss your assessment needs with the team, who can advise on the most appropriate adjustments for you.
We understand that circumstances can be challenging, and it isn't always possible to register within this timeframe. If you haven't registered with Disability Services, you can contact the LUBS Student Support Team directly.
Let us know why you need an adjustment and what kind of adjustment might help. We will then explore whether this is possible and appropriate for your situation.
Your email will be handled by a member of the Student Support team.
If you'd prefer, you can also speak to your Module Leader, Personal Tutor, or another trusted staff member first. They will then get in touch with the Student Support team on your behalf.
What Evidence Do I Need?
Details on how to register with Disability Services can be found on the University Disability Services page, however we can review what options are available if you do not have a formal diagnosis.
Your wellbeing is our priority, and if you don't have any official paperwork, that's okay. A conversation with our support team where you describe how you are affected and what you need is all that is required. Arrangements are made on a case-by-case basis.
However, if you do have a diagnosed disability, a doctor's note, or other documentation, this can make the process more straightforward and allow for ongoing arrangements to be made.
What Happens After I Make a Request?
Every student's situation is unique, so we handle every request individually. Here’s what you can expect:
- Our Student Support team will receive your email (either from you or a staff member).
- If you are registered with Disability Services they will usually signpost you to the specialist Disability Practitioners who can advise you further.
- If you are not registered with Disability Services, a team member will arrange a conversation with you (in person or online) to discuss your needs and any barriers you may be presented with. You can choose whether to include your Module Leader in this chat.
- The support team will then work with your Module Leader to identify the most appropriate adjustment for you and determine whether an alternative assessment is needed.
- Any adjustments that are agreed via LUBS Student Support will be on a temporary basis and you will be encouraged to register with Disability Services if you require ongoing arrangements.
Top Tips
- Register with Disability Services: If you have a disability or condition you want to register, contact Disability Services as soon as you can. They often have a waiting list, so it's a good idea to get in the queue early. You can find them here: Disability Services.
- Check ahead: You can see the assessment formats for all your modules on the module catalogue before term starts. If you know you're likely to need adjustments, this can help you plan ahead.
Is This a Permanent Change?
Any adjustments agreed with the LUBS Student Support team would be a one-off.
Please contact and register with Disability Services to ensure that your needs are considered for your future assessments.
For every failure, there's an alternative course of action. You just have to find it. When you come to a roadblock, take a detour.