# Assistive technology for your studies

**Source**: https://student.sussex.ac.uk/disability/assistive-technology
**Parent**: https://student.sussex.ac.uk/international/visas

Discover how to maximise your learning and find accessible solutions for your study needs.

## How to get assistive technology as a student

If you are a UK student, you can get hardware (such as headphones, laptops, recording equipment and printers) [funded by Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA)](https://student.sussex.ac.uk/disability/funding/disabled-students-allowance).

You can also get software (including screen-readers, speech-to-text programs and mind mapping solutions) for free through the same process.

If you do not qualify for DSA, there are some free and cost-effective options to help you study.

**Tip:** You can use [assistive facilities available in the Library](https://www.sussex.ac.uk/its/help/guide?id=16) or [book an assistive PC study session](https://www.sussex.ac.uk/library/study-rooms/) (log-in required).

## Assistive technology on your computer

Your computer has built in accessibility settings.

Depending on your computer’s system, check:

- [Windows accessibility guidance](https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/accessibility-features) (Windows 10, 8 and 7)
- [macOS accessibility guidance](https://www.apple.com/uk/accessibility/).

## Extra software you can download

There are many assistive software options for students with, and without, recognised needs.

These can help with:

- reading (using, for instance, a screenreader or a coloured overlay)
- referencing and notetaking
- typing (using voice recognition)
- checking spelling, punctuation and grammar
- concentration and time management
- managing anxiety and regulating your mood.

You can download/access the following free assistive software:

- [ClaroRead Pro](https://www.sussex.ac.uk/its/services/software/list?id=82) – a multi-sensory solution for reading and writing
- [MindView](https://www.sussex.ac.uk/its/services/software/list?id=349) – software to visually map and organise ideas
- [NVDA screenreader](https://www.sussex.ac.uk/its/services/software/list?id=626) – reads out the content of digital documents
- [ZoomText](https://www.sussex.ac.uk/its/services/software/list?id=83) – enlarges and enhances everything on your computer screen, making all of your applications easy to see and use
- Jamworks – professional-grade, AI note taking app that links with your lecture recordings and can produce flash cards and revision aids. Contact [disabilityadvice@sussex.ac.uk](mailto:disabilityadvice@sussex.ac.uk) for access.

## Equipment

There are many hardware solutions to support your study needs, from laptop stands to specialist input devices.

Items include:

- digital recorders and microphones
- headphones, headsets and earbuds
- ergonomic keyboards and braille displays
- pointing devices, such as a mouse, track ball or trackpad
- eye-tracking cameras
- ergonomic chairs and adjustable desks.

The cost of these items can vary. [If you qualify for Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA)](https://student.sussex.ac.uk/disability/funding), these costs are usually covered by funding.

If you don’t qualify for DSA, you can search online to find equipment that suits your needs and budget.

## Further help and advice

If you need advice or support you can get in touch through [My Sussex](https://mysussex.sussex.ac.uk/).

You can also:

- come to a Disability Advisor drop-in, every Wednesday (11am-1pm) and Thursday (2pm-4pm) in the Student Centre during term-time
- visit the Student Centre Welcome desk, 8.30am-5pm, Monday-Friday
- call [01273 075700](tel:+441273075700), 9am-4.30pm, Monday-Friday.