Supporting clarity, rhythm and emotional safety in oral assessments

Viva’s can feel unpredictable, performative or emotionally intense. This framework invites neurodivergent students to prepare in ways that honour their thinking, pacing and presence.

Begin with What You Need

Neurodivergent preparation begins with self-awareness. Let’s start by identifying what helps you feel safe, focused and supported.

Reflection checklist

• I’ve reflected on my sensory, cognitive and emotional needs
• I’ve considered what kind of environment helps me think clearly
• I’ve acknowledged what makes oral exams challenging for me

Fill in the blanks
I feel most confident when
One thing I need to feel safe in a viva is

Clarify the Format and Expectations

Let’s gently define what your viva will involve, who will be present, what they’ll ask and how long it will last.

Preparation checklist

• I’ve reviewed the structure and timing of the viva
• I’ve identified who will be examining me
• I’ve asked for accommodations or adjustments if needed

Try this
My viva will include
I’ve prepared by

Helpful resource

Disability and Learning Support Service – University of Edinburgh
Guidance for requesting adjustments and preparing for oral assessments

Prepare Your Responses with Rhythm

Neurodivergent thinking often benefits from structured rehearsal, visual prompts and pacing. Let’s shape your preparation accordingly.

Rhythm checklist

• I’ve created cue cards or visual scaffolds
• I’ve rehearsed with someone who understands my communication style
• I’ve built in rest and pacing to avoid overwhelm

Try this
My preparation rhythm includes

• 20-minute focused review sessions
• Visual summaries of key chapters
• Practice questions with gentle feedback

Use Language That Feels Like You

Your viva is not a performance. It’s a conversation. Let’s choose words that reflect your voice, your values and your clarity.

Language checklist

• I’ve prepared phrases that help me pause or clarify
• I’ve practised explaining complex ideas in simple terms
• I’ve considered how to express uncertainty with confidence

Fill in the blanks
One phrase I’ll use to buy time is
One phrase I’ll use to redirect a question is

Helpful resource

Academic Confidence – University of Manchester
Support for speaking clearly and self-assuredly in academic settings

Invite Support and Feedback

You don’t have to prepare alone. Let’s build a support spiral that includes mentors, peers and rituals of care.

Support checklist

• I’ve asked someone to help me rehearse
• I’ve created a post-viva ritual to decompress
• I’ve planned how to receive feedback with emotional safety

Try this
My support spiral includes

• A trusted peer for rehearsal
• A quiet space for recovery
• A feedback plan that honours my emotional rhythm

What might change if every viva were designed to honour neurodivergent minds, not just assess them

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