The University of Lisbon (UL), as a public higher education institution and part of an inclusion policy implementation, being obliged to remove obstacles to success and participation of Students with Special Educational Needs (SSEN) in academic, social and cultural life, created the SSEN Status Regulations.

Who is considered a Student with Special Educational Needs?

The SSEN is the student who, by reason of loss or abnormality, either congenital or acquired, of function or body structures, including psychological functions, has particular difficulties which, in conjunction with environmental factors, limit or hinder activity and participation on an equal basis with others, under the 38/2004 18 August Law.

What are the conditions for granting the status SSEN to be proven?

The application of SSEN status must be required to the competent authorities of each organizational unit (OU), at the beginning of the school year, upon registration, unless the disability is only manifested later or occurs after the start of the school year. The application must be accompanied by proper evidence. (See article 2 of Regulation)

Who analyzes the process?

The director of the organic unity decides on each application and may for that purpose request the assistance of technical experts.

What are the benefits?

The SSEN enjoys special conditions of attendance, social support, personal assistance, accessibility and mobility in the facilities and an evaluation regime under appropriate conditions to their situation.

For more information, check the Regulation for the Status of the Student with Special Educational Needs, University of Lisbon.