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Accessibility resources

Thank you to the disability advocates in our community and the people and groups at UVic who have developed resources to improve accessibility.

UVic's accessibility map (PDF) has information on accessible parking, ramps and washroom locations.

Facilities Management creates physical environments that are usable and accessible to people with disabilities. They respond to and help address physical accessibility concerns about campus.

Equity and Human Rights supports individuals who have experienced discrimination, harassment or bullying.

Resources for students with disabilities

Health and wellness

The Student Wellness Centre offers a variety of services to support students’ mental, physical and spiritual health.

Academic supports

The Centre for Accessible Learning supports educational accessibility by facilitating disability-related accommodation plans for students. CAL has programming designed to remove academic barriers for students, such as: an accommodated exam centre, specialized tutors, adaptive technology, and sign language interpreting.

The UVic Learning Assistance Program connects students with specialized tutors and learning strategists for one-on-one, personalized learning support.

UVic Libraries supports users with a disability by providing several specialized facilities and services. They offer assistive technology rooms, priority workspaces, respite rooms, book retrieval and materials in alternate formats.

Co-op and career supports

UVic's accessibility and inclusion co-op coordinator advocates for inclusive and equitable support during work terms. They can help you find a co-op placement.

Career Services provides resources on finding inclusive employers. They can meet with you to discuss your needs and find a comfortable path forward.

UVic provides guidance on disclosing your disability to a current or prospective employer, intended as complementary information as you make your own decision.

Financial aid

UVic offers several scholarships to support students with a disability, including those who are on a reduced course load. Students may be eligible for scholarships as long as they meet academic and/or other award-specific criteria. See all entrance scholarships and in-course scholarships.

UVic offers bursaries to support current students with demonstrated financial need. There are bursaries available specifically for students with disabilities, including the Alice Lough McLaggan Bursary, Faculty Association Bursary, and Heather Macartney Memorial Bursary.

The B.C. Access Grant for Students with Disabilities helps full-time students with a permanent, persistent or prolonged disability with the cost of education by replacing up to $1,560 ($30 per week of study) per program year in B.C. student loan funding.

See more external awards (PDF).

On-campus housing

Students with a disability or chronic health condition may request Priority Consideration for on-campus housing.

Residence Services provides accessibility features in several residence types (single and double rooms, cluster residence apartments and Family Housing units). They are committed to working with eligible students to determine suitable accommodation.

Community supports

The Society for Students with a Disability is a student group that offers funding support, campaigning and advocacy, a food security program and events.

Resources for employees with disabilities

Human Resources provides ergonomics supports and resources, including a Brightspace course in office ergonomics.

UVic's medical accommodations program provides a planned approach to returning or remaining at work following an injury or illness.

The Employee Family Assistance Program (EFAP) includes confidential professional counselling, information and referral services.

Resources for community members

Vikes Athletics and Recreation provides inclusive and accessible recreation and leisure opportunities for students, staff and community members. They offer accessible programs, equipment, adaptive climbing and more.

CanAssist is dedicated to helping people with disabilities improve their quality of life. The team develops customized technologies and innovative programs to support people with disabilities.

STEPS Forward partners with UVic to increase access to university for young adults with developmental disabilities.

Research on campus

CanAssist is dedicated to helping people who experience physical or cognitive barriers. They provide innovative technologies, programs and services to address unmet needs.

The Centre for Youth and Society collaborates toward youth well-being. Related research includes physical and mental health and inclusion and engagement.

The Institute for Aging and Lifelong Health promotes and conducts research to improve health and quality of life. Research focuses on brain health, digital health, health services and more.

The Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research researches substance use and addiction. Their work supports community-wide efforts to promote health and reduce harm.

The Centre for Indigenous Research and Community-Led Engagement promotes, facilitates and leads research that improves Indigenous peoples' well-being.