Accessibility for students on Erasmus+ exchange

UiS aims to ensure that students with disabilities can participate freely in Erasmus+ exchanges.

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Students with disabilities or chronic illnesses often face different challenges compared to others when it comes to participating in exchange activities. Erasmus+ places special emphasis on providing opportunities for all students to go on exchange. UiS, like other universities and colleges participating in Erasmus+, is committed to accommodating individuals with special needs or disabilities.

Gate i Nederland, folk og butikker

Lånekassen (The Norwegian State Educational Loan Fund) 

You can apply for additional support from Lånekassen to cover extra expenses related to the exchange mobility.

Additional Erasmus+ Grant 

Erasmus additional grant is available for students with disabilities requiring accommodations. It can provide up to 100% funding for all types of additional expenses not covered by aids/support that the student is entitled to bring from Norway. The home institution of the student applies for these funds, and the application must be supported by a medical certificate. The grant is paid either as a fixed monthly sum or based on documented expenses (Source: HK-dir).

Top-up for students with fewer opportunities

The following students may receive an additional € 250 per month:

  • Students with children under 18 years old, regardless of whether the child accompanies them on the exchange. 
  • Students with disabilities and chronic illnesses that affect their study situation.
  • Students with refugee status.

You must check the box for "top-up for students with fewer opportunities" in the grant agreement to be eligible for the top-up. You will then be asked to document that you meet at least one of the three criteria, for example by submitting an official doctor's note. Please contact the Erasmus+ coordinator in the Exchange Guide for information on how to provide documentation.

HK-dir - The Norwegian Directorate for Higher Education and Skills

The University of Stavanger has the opportunity to apply for additional funds from HK-dir. These funds are intended to cover extra expenses that are NOT covered by public aids/support that the student is entitled to bring from Norway.

Sophies Minde Foundation

Sophies Minde Foundation offers a scholarship specifically for students with mobility disabilities pursuing bachelor's or master's studies. The scholarship can also be awarded in connection with exchange stays. The purpose of the scholarship is to encourage more students with disabilities to pursue higher education and to facilitate the completion of their studies.

The International Office aims to facilitate exchange opportunities for all students who wish to go on an exchange. If you have a health issue or disability and are unsure how to proceed with a study abroad experience, you can contact the International Office through the Exchange Guide to seek advice and assistance throughout the process. Early dialogue and assessment of accommodation needs are key to a successful exchange experience.

Note: Our partner universities request documentation in English. If you are going to a university within Erasmus+, you can apply for funds to cover the costs of an approved translator (Contact the International Office). You can also check with your general practitioner if they can provide a letter in English confirming the contents of the report describing your condition.

The University of Alicante in Spain has a campus area in beautiful and lush surroundings that is particularly accessible for students with disabilities. The university also has a dedicated office that supports students with various types of accommodation needs.