Effective from 1 August 2023 (Decision of the Academic Rector No. 16/2023)
Who is entitled to individual study arrangements?
You are entitled to individual study arrangements if you have a health-related reason that affects your studies. Grounds for arrangements include, for example:
- dyslexia or other learning difficulties
- sensory or physical disability
- mental health disorders
- chronic illness
- temporary health impairment, such as the consequences of an accident
This applies to all UEF students — both degree students and Open University students.
Arrangements are not granted on the basis of your place of residence, work commitments or caring responsibilities. In the case of short-term illnesses (e.g. flu), your teacher can agree on arrangements with you directly without a separate recommendation.
What can individual study arrangements include?
Individual study arrangements are personalised solutions that support you in achieving the learning outcomes of a course. They do not mean lowering the requirements or learning outcomes. Examples:
| Type of arrangement | Examples |
|---|---|
| Assistive tools | Computer, braille display, induction loop, dictionary |
| Time and space arrangements | Extra time, a quieter examination room, additional lighting |
| Material arrangements | Larger font size, lecture materials in advance, audiobook, lecture streaming or recording |
| Services | Personal assistant or interpreter (arranged by the student) |
| Alternative modes of completion | Oral exam, learning assignments instead of an exam, completing the course in stages |
If you use your own assistive tool – such as a computer – as an individual study arrangement, the university has the right to check the files and programmes on your device, for example before an exam begins.
Assistive tools and personal assistants without a separate recommendation
If you use assistive tools provided by healthcare services, a personal assistant or a guide dog, you may use them in teaching without a separate recommendation. It’ s a very good idea to let your teacher know in advance. However, a separate recommendation is required if you need a small-group or separate examination room in order to use your assistive tool or have your assistant present.
How to apply for individual study arrangements
You can apply for arrangements at any point during your studies. You can apply for arrangements covering all of your studies or only specific ones (e.g. Language Centre courses only).
The process is as follows:
- Fill in the application form and describe what arrangements you need and why.
- Attach a medical certificate or specialist statement indicating the grounds for your application.
- Send your application by secure email (opens in a new tab) to your faculty.
- If necessary, a network meeting will be arranged.
- You will receive a written recommendation to your UEF email.
Important deadlines
| Teaching or exam | Notify your teacher at least 10 days before the course begins |
| Minor subject entrance exam | Notify the contact person at least 14 days in advance |
Send or show your recommendation to your teacher by UEF email well in advance so that
the arrangements can be arranged in time.
Contacts and guidance
| Faculty / Unit | Contact person |
|---|---|
| Philosophical Faculty | Academic Affairs Specialist Salla Haapavaara and Iida Räsänen |
| Faculty of Science, Forestry and Technology | Head of Academic Affairs Maarit Merimaa-Piirainen |
| Faculty of Health Sciences | Head of Academic Affairs Susanna Järvelin-Pasanen |
| Faculty of Social Sciences and Business Studies (Joensuu) | Amanuensis Minna Paronen |
| Faculty of Social Sciences and Business Studies (Kuopio) | Academic Affairs Specialist Heli Kemppainen |
Additional support
- Special Education Teacher and Study Wellbeing Specialist: Tiina Juurela (Student and Learning Services)
- Campus accessibility coordinator: Head of Student Services and Admissions Erja Widgrén-Sallinen
- You can also contact your Personal Study Plan (PSP) counsellor