Extra Pedagogical Support
For Doctoral Students With Disabilities
Students with a long-term disability can apply for extra pedagogical support from Linköping University. The support offered is individually tailored to the student and aims to facilitate their studies on equal terms. This support is even applicable for students enrolled in third-cycle education with a long-term disability.
Long-term disability refers to a reduction in functional ability that has lasted or is expected to last, for at least six months. Examples of long-term disabilities that can affect a person in the study situation are dyslexia, neuropsychiatric disorders, physical limitations such as hearing loss and mobility impairment. Temporary limitations of a person’s functional capacity are not considered disability in the sense of the Discrimination Act. Students with temporary limitations are therefore not eligible for extra pedagogical support.
What Type of Support Can A Doctoral Student Receive?
Extra pedagogical support is individually tailored to the student’s needs. Below are some examples of support measures a research-level student can be granted:
- A mentor who can serve as an independent discussion partner and provide advice regarding things such as prioritization/planning, study tips, and exchange of experiences. The mentor is not to contribute scientifically – that is the responsibility of the supervisors.
- The possibility to audibly record course lectures, and supervisory meetings.
- Support with course-studies such as access to lecture materials or extended exam time.
- Sign language interpretation, written interpretation, and deaf-blind interpretation can be provided in study-related contexts by interpreters who are affiliated with the university through agreements.
Nais is the system through which students with a long-term disability can apply for extra pedagogical support.
How Do I Apply?
You must apply for extra pedagogical support via the National Administration and Information System (NAIS). To be able to apply through NAIS a Swedish adress and personal identification number is required, along with a medical certificate confirming the long-term disability. The Nais-application involves six main steps:
- Select university
- Agree to personal data processing
- Provide contact information
- Attach medical certificate
- Describe your study situation
- Submit application
Who Determines If I’m Eligibile For Extra Pedagogical Support?
The Nais applicaton is sent to a coordinator from Linköping University’s Student Health Center. It is the coordinator who decides whether or not you are entitled to extra pedagogical support. The decision is based on the Nais-application along with the medical certificate to verify the long-term disability. If you are deemed eligible for support, the coordinator will contact you for an interview to assess your study situation and the type of support you need.