The types of arrangements and facilities can differ, depending on where you study.
Counsellors at your university
These are the Dutch professionals who can support you at the university.
Disability officer (studentendecaan)
The disability officers are part of the university’s central staff. They carry out intakes with disabled students, submit applications for special facilities or arrangements and provide general guidance. They, or their colleagues, also know about the regulations that apply to exchange students.
Academic advisor/Guidance counsellor (studieloopbaanbegeleider/studieadviseur)
These advisors are a member of your department. They will know little about disabilities, but a lot about your curriculum, study planning, courses, etc. They can support you by providing academic counselling and advice on planning. Universities of applied sciences often provide a mentor during the first year. This mentor will be one of your teachers who has been given an extra task. If you have any question concerning the above named you can go to your mentor first. If you have a more complex question, the mentor will refer you to the academic advisor or guidance counsellor. Research universities sometimes also work with mentors who are often senior students.
Examination board (examencommissie)
Some study modifications will have a direct effect on exams and the way you get your marks.for instance:
- you might be able to use your laptop during exams,
- do alternative assignments
- or be exempt from work placements).
These modifications need the approval of your department’s examination board. The disability officer will help you submit applications to the examination board.
Student counsellor (studentenpsycholoog)
Most large universities have a student counsellor. The student counsellor helps students with psychological problems related to their study. Aside from individual appointments, they provide study matching tests and training (for instance, on how to cope with performance anxiety, motivational issues or addiction).