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Disability Information and Support provides support to any students with a disability, impairment, medical condition, or injury that affects their study for a period of four weeks or more.

Disability Information and Support recognises that students with disabilities, impairments, medical conditions, or injuries, including mental health conditions, may require additional resources or assistance while studying. As well as providing students with support, advice, advocacy, and information, Disability Information and Support provides a number of specific resources and services such as:

  • Lecture note-taking services
  • Specific exam accommodations (such as extra examination time, using a computer instead of writing by hand, etc.)
  • Extension applications for internal assessments
  • Interpreters or more accessible lecture content for various learning disabilities
  • Physical disability accommodations (such as arranging wheelchair access for a building or room on campus)
  • Voice recognition software for the visually impaired
  • Assistance with applying for Special Consideration for examinations if you were impaired or became impaired during your exams
  • General information and assistance with mental health, disability, or other medical conditions or injuries that are impacting your studies

You can also contact Disability Information and Support even if you are unsure whether your circumstances would qualify, and they may be able to direct you to the relevant division or organisation for further support.

All services are completely confidential. The sharing of any information is only done with your consent, with the exception of concerns around safety as outlined in the Privacy Act.

Your use of Disability Information and Support services is not recorded on your University of Otago academic record or marked on your qualification, however some provisions or accommodations provided by Disability Information and Support may require supporting documentation, such as a medical note from a doctor, a formal diagnosis, or a letter from a counsellor or therapist. You will be advised if such documentation is required from you.

All services provided by Disability Information and Support are free for domestic students, but there may be a bond charged for hiring equipment or voice recognition software.

International students should contact Disability Information and Support to discuss if any services will incur a cost.

Further information

Disability Information and Support