Before You Go: Tips & Advice for Students with Disabilities
Studying abroad is a fantastic opportunity to visit different countries, learn more about your favourite subjects and to meet new people. Students with disabilities may feel a bit anxious about studying abroad and being in a new environment. However, our checklist for studying abroad will help you every step of the way and answer any questions you may ha
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Travelling Post Brexit
Since Brexit the rules and regulations around studying abroad have changed. British students can still study in the EU, but they will probably need a student visa to do so. It’s important to check what you will need before commencing your studies abroad. We would recommend reviewing the Living in Country Guides on the gov.uk website to find out more about the individual requirements of the different EU member states. Some exceptions may apply but the relevant UK Student Finance body will probably not fund your studies.
The fees you need to pay should be the same as fees charged to citizens of your host country. You may not be eligible for maintenance grants or loans from the host country unless you have a permanent residency or you already work in that country. British citizens who would like to study in the Republic of Ireland will still be covered by the Common Travel Area arrangements. Luckily, there are many programmes, scholarships and bursaries, that you may apply for. They often have grants for students from underrepresented groups, including those with disabilities. To find out more about your entitlements you should contact your chosen university abroad.
Travelling Post Brexit Brief Summary:
- British students can still study in the EU, but the relevant UK Student Finance body will probably not fund your studies.
- Find out more about study abroad programmes and scholarships for students with disabilities.
- Purchase comprehensive travel insurance while you are still in the UK.
- Check the Living in Country Guides in advance on the gov.uk website, which include important information on residency rules and visa requirements for the country you would like to study in.
- Don’t forget to get a Student Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) or check if your Student European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is still valid.
- Double check that all your health needs are covered by your insurance policy and talk to your provider if you have any questions.
Europe’s Most Accessible Cities
Some of the most accessible cities in Europe are Luxembourg. Helsinki and Barcelona. In the whole of Europe research shows that Luxembourg is the most accessible. The accommodation in the city is 18.56% barrier-free and 33.33% of the attractions are barrier-free as well as a fully accessible airport, which is ideal for those who are travelling with a wheelchair. The city council has an ongoing campaign for accessibility. There are many fabulous places to study in mainland Europe, but some cities are better adapted than others. Lisbon, Riga, Athens, Sofia and Zagreb are some of the least accessible cities in Europe. It’s important to find a university that offers the right course, but also a city that offers lots of things to do and is easy to get around.
Travelling With Disabilities
- Contact your travel provider in advance regarding your travel requirements.
- You are legally entitled to support, which is known as ‘Special Assistance’. This means that airports and airlines are legally required to provide support and assistance, which helps to ensure you have a stress free journey.
- You can request special assistance for at the airport and also for connecting flights and travelling through to your destination airport.
- You can take your own wheelchair with you, but it will need to be stored in the hold. Make sure to contact your airline in advance to arrange special assistance and to let them know that you would like to bring your own personal mobility aid with you.
Organising Healthcare
Firstly, check that you have a valid Student European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or Student Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC). Please note that these are not accepted in Monaco, San Marino and the Vatican. The new UK GHIC will replace the previous UK EHIC. You can use your EHIC card until it expires. GHIC cards are free of charge, but beware of unofficial websites, as they may charge you fees to apply. There is no deadline to apply for a GHIC. Once your application is approved, it will take around 2 to 3 weeks to get your UK GHIC. If your card is lost or stolen you will need to pay for treatment and apply for a Provisional Replacement Certificate (PRC).
If you’re abroad and you need help or support, call the Overseas Healthcare Services. This service is managed by the NHS Business Services Authority (BSA).
NHS Overseas Healthcare Services: telephone: +44 (0)191 218 1999
Available from: Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm
Keep medicines and medical equipment, such as needles and syringes in their original, correctly labelled packaging. It’s recommended to carry your medicine in your hand luggage along with a copy of your prescription. Additionally, include a letter from your GP practice, which states the official names of the medications (not just the brand name) and any health conditions. Some GP practices may charge for such letters, as GPs are not obliged to provide this service under the NHS.
Medically necessary healthcare that cannot wait until you return to the UK will be covered. Whether treatment is necessary will be decided by the healthcare provider in the country you’re studying in. This could include:
- Emergency treatment
- Visits to A&E
- Treatment for long-term or pre-existing medical conditions
- Routine medical care for pre-existing conditions that need monitoring
It is recommended to take out health insurance to make sure that you are covered for all cases. Discuss your pre-existing medical conditions with your GP before going abroad, as they will be able to provide you with some support and guidance.
Unfortunately, UK prescriptions are generally not accepted in EU Countries (except Ireland and Spain). If you require prescribed medication whilst studying abroad speak to a local pharmacist. You may have to get a prescription from a doctor and pay towards the cost of your prescription. However, with an EHIC or GHIC you should pay the same amount as a citizen of the EU country. Make sure that any prescriptions are always from a state-approved doctor in the EU.
Culture Shock
When studying abroad you’ll be exposed to new cultures and lifestyles. Culture shock refers to feeling confused, disoriented and homesick while getting used to a new environment. There could be differences in how people dress, behave, interact and even teach.
Cultural viewpoints on disability can also vary from nation to nation. One of the best ways to deal with them when studying abroad is to research the common attitudes and customs beforehand. This will help you to understand how to interact with the locals. It will also mean you’ll be prepared to deal with any differences in culture between the UK and abroad. You could also speak to other students with disabilities who have already studied abroad to find out about their experiences. Before commencing your studies abroad check that you will have access to any support and resources that you need. It is also a good idea to take mementoes and familiar items with you to remind you of home. This will help you to feel less homesick.
Important Final Tips
You’re almost ready to go, but don’t forget to pack everything you will need for your time abroad. Packing for studying abroad can be quite stressful especially if you are feeling anxious about being in an unfamiliar environment. It’s important to remember everything you will need especially if you have any medical conditions. Remember that countries differ and not all services will be available or accessible to you. It’s time to turn your dream of studying abroad into a reality.
Conclusion: Are you Ready?
Studying abroad is an amazing opportunity to step out of your comfort zone, try something new and to find out more about yourself. It is very rewarding, looks great on your CV and it will give your confidence a big boost. Follow the tips and advice in our guide and you will be ready to go. Find out more.
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