Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get assessed for Irlen Syndrome?

The Irlen centre at Glyndŵr University only provides evaluations for students in Higher Education who are in receipt of the Disabled Students' Allowance.

Individuals who are not eligible for DSA funding can be referred to the Irlen Centre in Mold, Flintshire. Please contact the lead Irlen diagnostician for the contact details.

How long will the assessment take?

The appointment is likely to take between 2 and 2.5 hours.

Do I have to prepare for the assessment?

It will be helpful if, before the Assessment appointment, you think carefully about the particular difficulties you are experiencing for example;

• headaches, eyestrain or difficulties with reading or the computer screen
• glare from OHPs, Powerpoint or the printed page

What happens at the assessment?

A specialist lens kit will be used in order to identify the correct filter, and every lens chosen would be for the individual only, and cannot be used by anyone else. It may be that a few lenses are identified in order to suit the individual’s specific needs.

Can I be tested for Irlen Syndrome at the opticians?

No, only trained Irlen® Diagnosticians are able to provide specialised filters for Irlen Syndrome. While opticians are able to provide tinted lenses, they will not be Irlen filters.

Will the tint be the same as the overlay colour?

No the overlay is an acetate which can be placed over the page to minimise the problems with the printed page. Precision tinted filters are worn as glasses and identified only after the diagnostic assessment.

Do I have to pay for the assessment?

No, the assessment and the lenses will be funded through your DSA allowance. This will be organised through the Irlen Centre at Glyndŵr University.

Do I have to provide frames or glasses?

If you wear glasses:

• an up to date prescription is required
• your glasses would be sent away for tinting

If you do not wear glasses:

• an up to date eye test will be required
• tinted lenses will be provided

The lenses can then be taken to an optician and fitted into frames. You will have to pay for the frames.

How long will I have to wait for my glasses/lenses?

Usually around three to four weeks.