Frequently Asked Questions

I have a query/problem, who should I contact and how?

This page has a list that directs you to the right person using email or phone, and has contacts for your tutor, Student Support Team, Computing Helpdesk, Library and Student Fees.
There is also the Help Centre which has a wealth of information on all sorts of subjects for OU students!

There is induction information here, which covers getting started, OU support, study materials and OU community.
When your module starts, don’t be afraid to jump into the forums, and contact your tutor.

As a first point of call, you can talk to your tutor or SST. They can help you with study-related issues, such as extensions, discussing areas to focus on, or even taking a break from study.

Your first point of call is your GP, or your mental health team if you are known to mental health services. If you are in crisis, there is SHOUT 85258 or the Samaritans.
There are services such as TalkCampus and the OU Wellbeing app, and charities such as Mind and Rethink with further info here.

You can apply to Student Finance England for a part-time Tuition Fee Loan (even if you are studying 120 credits a year, you are still classed as part-time), which pays your tuition fees.
For certain STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) subjects, you can get a loan even if you already have a degree. Find further information here.

You can apply to Student Finance Wales for a part-time Tuition Fee Loan (even if you are studying 120 credits a year, you are still classed as part-time), which pays your tuition fees.
For certain STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) subjects, you can get a loan even if you already have a degree. Find further information here.
Wales also has the Maintenance Grant (base amount plus a means-tested amount) and a Maintenance Loan. Further info can be found here.

You can apply to Student Awards Agency Scotland for a Part-time Fee Grant.
To be eligible you must have a personal income of less than £25,000. Find more info here.

You can apply to Student Finance Northern Ireland for a Part-time Fee Grant (means-tested) or Part-time Tuition Fee Loan.
There is also a means-tested Course Grant of up to £265. Find more info here.

The Help Centre has a whole topic on careers advice, including CVs and interview support.

There is a range of adjustments the OU can offer, including; accessible websites, alternative module material formats, online tutorials, deadline extensions, mental health support, exam arrangements and computing support.
What they are and how to request them is detailed here.

You have to have at least one of; a long-term health condition (e.g. cancer, chronic heart disease), a specific learning disability (e.g. dyslexia, ADHD), a mental health condition (e.g. anxiety or depression), a physical disability or a sensory disability (e.g. deaf or visual impairment. This condition must affect your ability to study.

First, you need to apply, which involves filling in a form and submitting medical evidence from your GP or other medical practitioner.
Then you will have a needs assessment, and possibly a separate ergonomic assessment.
Then your funding body will decide whether to approve the recommendations.
After that, you will receive confirmation of this, and then your supplier will arrange for you to receive your equipment (some of which can be upgraded, such as the laptop).
Then you need to sort out your mentor/non-medical help (if approved) and book your tutorials for your software.

You can get help with; specialist equipment needed because of your disability (e.g. a computer, an adjustable desk), non-medical helpers (e.g. mentors, study skills, note takers), travel because of your disability and general support (e.g. printer ink and paper because of disability needs such as needing to proof read not on a screen).

There is the study-related costs fund (England, Northern Ireland and Wales), and the discretionary funds for study-related costs (Scotland).
These can help with costs related to your studies, such as set books, study materials, internet access, travel, childcare, and additional costs due to residential modules such as food or accommodation, more eligible costs can be found on the websites.
It can also help with the costs of diagnostic assessments for specific leaning difficulties (e.g. dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia) and (in England) the £200 contribution to your DSA provided PC/laptop. It can also help with the costs of a new/refurbished laptop/PC up to £250.

There are many bursaries, grants and scholarships from the OU. A full list can be found here.

To be eligible you must have a disability or medical condition that stops you physically attending a campus university.
You need to have a study intensity of at least 25% (30 credits/year), and be under 60.
There is further information about the procedure here.

You can submit a Special Circumstances Form. This is given to the Module Results Panel to consider when determining your grade (more info here.)

You can ask for an extension if it is a TMA (you can’t get one if it’s an iCMA or EMA/emTMA).
You need to talk to your tutor to find out your options.