Possibilities for educational aids
You may need certain accommodations in order to take part in education, for instance, if you have a visual or hearing impairment. Examples of educational aids include a laptop or text-to-speech and dictation software.
For example, some educational institutions have their own or third-party text-to-speech software that can help you read, learn, write and study texts. If that is the case, you can request such an aid from your educational institution. A laptop is another example of an aid that you might be able to obtain via your degree programme. Ask your school about the possibilities in connection with accommodations and try to explain what you need in clear terms!
Accommodation schemes
Nationwide schemes
In the Netherlands, there are nationwide schemes that might provide you with financial assistance for purchasing the educational aids you need to be successful in your studies. In some cases, you can request aids from the Social Security Agency or receive funds from them for that purpose. Please note: do not go out and buy the aids yourself without talking to the Social Security Agency first. If you do, you run the risk of an unpleasant surprise if reimbursement turns out not to be an option!
Schemes provided by educational institutions
To help them take part in education, students with a special need can request adjustments. Below, a number of examples are given of the other possibilities for aids and adjustments. These options can differ from one educational institution to the next. There may also be other additional options besides these accommodations.
- Educational aids such as a laptop and text-to-speech/dictation software
- Low-stimulus study area
- Adjusted study materials
- Educational aids
- Information on aids and accommodations for attending class and testing
Have a look at the other facilities, accommodations or schemes that might be helpful for you,
Tips for educational aids
What can my educational institution do for me?
Always be sure to contact your educational institution to discuss which educational and testing aids are the best fit for your special needs. With that in mind, you should check your educational institution's website as well.
What can the Social Security Agency do for me?
The Social Security Agency has a network of permanent suppliers for the procurement and reimbursement of aids. In many cases, they are able to purchase such aids at a discount. For this reason, you should always talk to the Social Security Agency about the possibilities first.
Visual impairment tool
Students can use free Braille and speech software that reads tables well, such as NVDA.