Disability support in higher education
Universities and colleges are increasingly aware of the needs of students with a disability and students with a learning difficulty. They can offer support in a number of ways and you may be able to get extra financial help.
Support for students with disabilities
See the latest advice about COVID-19 for students in higher education.
Universities and higher education colleges must make provision for students with disabilities. Support given by colleges and universities can include:
- accommodation adapted for the needs of students with disabilities
- professional care staff
- help from volunteers
Each university or college should publish a 'disability statement' setting out how it gives support. You can ask to see a copy of this statement, as well as looking on its website to see details of its policies.
Disability advisors and learning support coordinators
Every university or college has a disability advisor or learning support coordinator to help you get the most out of your time in higher education. They can tell you about the support available, for example, equipment to help you study.
You may find it useful to contact your university or college's disability adviser or disability coordinator before you make a final decision about where to study. It's also a good idea to go and check the institution out for yourself.
When applying to a university, you don't have to tell them about your disability but you will need to do so to get additional support or funding.
Help while you're studying
There are many things universities can do to help students with disabilities, including:
- offering course materials in Braille and other accessible formats
- making sure buildings and facilities are accessible
- encouraging flexible teaching methods
- giving support during exams
- allowing additional time to complete courses
You may also need help on a day-to-day basis to help you study. This could be someone to:
- interpret words into sign language
- take notes for you
- write down your words, for example, in an exam
- help you overcome physical barriers
It's worth contacting your disability advisor or disability co-ordinator soon after you arrive at university or college so you can find out about the support available.
If you're in further education, you can get advice and guidance from your teacher or college about the courses, colleges or universities you are interested in.
Disabled Students' Allowances and other financial help
Disabled Students' Allowances offer extra financial help if you have an impairment, health condition (including mental health conditions) or a specific learning difficulty like dyslexia.
If you qualify for Disabled Students’ Allowances, they’re paid on top of any standard student support you get. They're not means-tested and you don’t have to pay them back.