How do I apply for an academic accommodation at a higher education institution in Switzerland?

The application is submitted to the office designated by the higher education institution, together with a description of the need and the required documentation. The institution determines the specific procedure.

What documentation may be required for an academic accommodation in Switzerland?

Current professional or medical documentation may be required to provide comprehensible evidence of the impairment and its effects on the studies. The responsible higher education office determines the requirements.

What examination adjustments may be considered for studying with a disability in Switzerland?

Depending on the individual case, additional working time, breaks, an adapted room, aids or an equivalent alternative arrangement may be considered. The subject-specific learning objectives remain unchanged.

Does an approved academic accommodation at a higher education institution in Switzerland automatically apply to all later examinations?

Not necessarily, because the decision may specify the period of validity, stage of study and examinations covered. If circumstances change, a new or amended application may be required.

Academic accommodations in higher education in Switzerland

A reasonable accommodation at a higher education institution adjusts study or examination conditions to compensate for disadvantages caused by a disability or health condition without changing the subject-specific learning objectives. The measures are assessed for the specific impairment and study situation. An application with the documentation required by the higher education institution is necessary.

byEmma&Elias

Studying with a disability or a long-term health condition may require adjustments to classes, assessments and examinations. The specialist or advisory office designated by the higher education institution is responsible. In the application, the effects on the studies are described and suitable measures are requested. Current professional or medical documentation may be required to provide comprehensible evidence of the need. Depending on the individual case, an examination adjustment may include additional working time, breaks, an adapted room, permitted aids or an equivalent alternative arrangement. Which measure is appropriate depends on the examination objective, the impairment and the organisational possibilities. A reasonable accommodation (Nachteilsausgleich) does not change the subject-specific competencies being assessed. Suitable adjustments may also be considered for classes, practical placements or digital materials. To support accessible study, applications should be submitted early enough for the higher education institution to clarify implementation before the relevant date. An earlier approval does not necessarily apply automatically to every subsequent examination or a changed stage of study. The written decision, its period of validity and the measures specified in it are binding.

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