If you have a learning need, a disability, emotional/mental health condition, or long-term health condition there is help available at university.
We have created this guide that explains:
What support is available
How to ask for it
Where to go for good advice
What is higher education?
Higher education is when you study at a level beyond school or college. This includes:
A Degree at university, or,
A Level 4 course or higher, at college, or
A Level 4 apprenticeship
How can I apply for university?
You apply for University via the UCAS website. You can find more information about UCAS and application deadlines.
Do I need to tell the university if I have a learning need, a disability, emotional/mental health condition, or long-term health condition?
YES, if you want support! Your school or college won’t do it for you. Sharing your needs helps universities put support in place. If you don’t tell them, they won’t know to help you.
Will my Education, Health Care (EHC) plan continue at university (if you had one at school or college)?
No. Your EHC Plan ends when you move to higher education. But don’t worry - other support is available
What support can I get at university?
Support at university may come directly from the university or be funded by the Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA). This guide will explain later what DSA is!
The type of support you receive depends on your university and your assessed needs. Support can include a mix of the following:
Here are some of the main ways:
Inclusive practice (Reasonable adjustments), usually available at most universities
Sharing lecture slides before class
Taking breaks during lectures or seminars or an extension to coursework deadlines
Timetabling classes on the ground floor or with level access
Recording of sessions
Extra time and/or rest breaks in exams
Access to assistive technology available on university computers (e.g. text readers, speech to text, mind mapping software)
Equipment and practical support – usually funded by DSA
A laptop with specialist assistive technology
Access to Apps such as Brain in Hand
Human support (Not for medical support) - usually funded by DSA or university
Counselling & Mental Health Advisers
Peer Support Schemes (e.g., buddy systems or student mentors)
Wellbeing Workshops (e.g., sessions on stress management, mindfulness, resilience)
Specialist Mentor (Mental Health or Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC).
Note Taker
Specialist Study Skills Tutor (Speech Specific Learning Differences and 4 Language or ASC) or Study Assistant
Mobility Support Assistant
BSL Interpreter
Assistive Technology Trainer
Top tips for Self-Advocacy
Self-advocacy means being able to talk to others about your needs, challenges, and what helps you!
Know your needs: Think about what has helped you at school or college, and consider what might help you at university
Share and ask early: Don’t wait until you’re struggling
Be clear: Explain exactly what will help you learn best
Get and keep copies: Save all emails, letters, and assessment reports that you, your parents/carers have from your school/college, (for example your EHC plan, SEN Support plan/IEP, or diagnostic reports)
Who can support me at university?
Universities have different teams to help students who need extra support
These include:
Disability Support Teams: Help with things like mobility, learning needs, or health conditions; reasonable adjustments and help with applying for DSA
Mental Health & Wellbeing Advisors: Support with stress, anxiety, or emotional health
Student Support Services: General help with life at university
At university, these teams are your go-to!
They can help with:
Learning and studying
Money and financial aid
Emotional/mental health and feeling well
Getting the right support for disabilities
How do I let the university know of my needs?
The best time to share information about your needs is during your UCAS application.
You can learn more about filling in your UCAS application.
How to do it
Go to the ‘More about you’ section of your UCAS application
Select your needs and/or disability from the dropdown list
(Optional) Use the free text box to explain anything you would like universities to know — such as how your needs affect your learning or daily life
Do I need a medical diagnosis?
NO, a formal diagnosis isn’t required to share your needs through UCAS
However, if you apply for Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA), you will need supporting evidence (e.g. medical letter, assessment report)
Why does it matter?
Sharing this information helps:
Get reasonable adjustments in place early (e.g. extra time in exams, note-taking support, accessible accommodation)
Connect you with disability support services
Make your transition to university smoother. You can keep if brief - this just gives universities a headsup to contact you about support options
What happens next?
Once your application is received, universities may:
Contact you to discuss your needs in more detail
Ask for further information or evidence
Guide you through applying for DSA or other support
If you are unsure what to share, speak to your:
Family
School
College
Careers adviser
Or contact the university’s disability support team directly.
More Information about Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA)
What is Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA)?
If you have a disability, mental health condition, specific learning difference (like dyslexia), or long-term health condition, you may be able to get DSA.
Disabled Students’ Allowance is money to cover extra study-related costs that you need for your disability or condition.
Good news! You do not have to pay it back.
It could cover things like:
Specialist equipment (e.g. laptop with assistive technology)
Human support (e.g., BSL interpreter, note-taker)
Specialist mentoring or study skills tuition
Travel and printing costs
How to apply for DSA
You don’t need to wait for a university offer - you can apply as soon as you apply through UCAS
You’ll need some evidence (e.g., a doctor’s letter or assessment report). Ask your parent/carer, school/college for copies.
If you’re not applying for Student Finance, you can still apply for DSA
What happens after I have applied for DSA?
Send evidence of your disability, health condition, or learning difference
Wait for your DSA1 letter (confirms you are eligible)
Go to a Study Needs Assessment
Get your Needs Assessment Report
Receive your DSA2 letter (final funding approval)
Your support is set up!
What next?
Once you get offers (or choose your firm choice), get in touch with the university’s Disability or Student Support Service.
They can:
Set up a support plan with you
Help with accommodation needs if you are planning to live on campus
Give advice about exam arrangements, extra time
What if I did not apply for DSA or it has not been approved by the time I start university?
Ask your university what temporary reasonable adjustments they can make for you in the interim, so your education is as accessible as possible.
Remember, self-advocacy is key!
What do I do if I need support with my personal care?
Support for personal care, night-time care, or support with independent living cannot be funded or provided by the university, or through Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA).
You will need to ask for a care needs assessment. It is important this is planned for in advance, to allow time for the assessment to take place and any adaptations made to your accommodation, if needed.
Support for personal care
You will need to ask Wandsworth council for an Adult Care Needs Assessment well before you move to university
Helpful links
This information guide has been put together using information provided by Roehampton University, Gov.uk and UCAS websites.
Read our full Going to university and getting help guide.
Unifish
The unifish website provides a guide to higher education in London for those who need a little more support.
Get Ready for Success: Wellbeing & Disability Support at University
Join Aimhigher London team, for an interactive day designed for learners with additional needs.
Discover how universities support wellbeing, inclusion, and accessibility.
What’s included:
Tips on disclosure (letting Universities know about the support you need) and why it matters
Hands-on assistive technology demos
Campus tour showcasing accessibility
Conversations with student ambassadors
Guidance on Disabled Students Allowance
This event is perfect for students with long-term health conditions, physical or sensory needs, or neurodivergence, for example dyslexia, ADHD, autism.
Bring a parent, teacher, or friend - or come solo! School groups welcome.
Don’t miss this chance to prepare for a supported and successful university experience!
Date: 22 April 2026
Location: St Mary's University, Twickenham
Time: 9.30am to 3pm