Paying in Scotland Diagnostic assessments for specific learning difficulties (SpLD)
To help you get the support you need for studying, if you have a specific learning difficulty (SpLD), you’ll need a diagnostic assessment.
The Open University (OU) in Scotland can help with the cost of a diagnostic assessment for dyslexia, dyscalculia and dyspraxia up to a maximum of £650 for OU students living in Scotland and currently studying.
Unfortunately, we cannot help with costs for ADHD assessments.
Steps to organise and pay for a diagnostic assessment
Find an assessor
Search for an assessor by location using the Patoss tutor index (you'll need to register with Patoss first). Dyslexia Scotland can also provide a list of specialist assessors who can provide diagnostic assessments specifically for dyslexia. Call their helpline on 0344 800 8484 to request the list, or email helpline@dyslexiascotland.org.uk.
Choose an assessor
Choose an assessor from either the Patoss or Dyslexia Scotland lists. Make sure you're only contacting certified assessors for specific learning difficulties. See Finding an assessor for more information.
Get a quote from the assessor
Contact the assessor you want to use and ask them for a quote for your diagnostic assessment. They'll also be able to answer any specific questions you have about the assessments.
Send the quote to OU Scotland
Send either the official email or a screenshot of the quote to us at scotland@open.ac.uk. Don't forget to include your OU personal identifier (PI) in your email. The OU can help with costs up to a maximum of £650. If the quote is more than £650 contact us to discuss your options using the contact details at the bottom of this page.
Receive confirmation and request for bank details
Once we’ve received the quote and payment has been approved, we'll ask you for your bank details. On receiving your bank details, we'll make the payment to you in 10 working days. It's your responsibility to pay for your assessment.
Book diagnostic assessment
When you've received the payment from us you can then go ahead and book your diagnostic assessment.
Send diagnostic assessment report to the OU
Once you have received your diagnostic assessment send a copy to us at scotland@open.ac.uk, including any password required to access the report. Don't forget to include your OU personal identifier (PI) in your email.
Contact us if you're unsure whether to have an assessment, worried about what's involved, or concerned about your studies.
Phone: +44 (0)131 226 3851, 08:00 - 17:30 Monday to Friday
Email: scotland@open.ac.uk
