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According to UCAS, every year, over 60,000 students with physical and/or mental health conditions and learning differences apply through UCAS to study at a university or college in the UK, and access a range of support to help them succeed with their studies, day-to-day activities, travel, and lifestyle.
But often this support available isn't always clear or explained to us...
Talk to your University
Talk to your University
In most instances, you University's website will be your best starting point. Here, you will be able to easily find information and advice for neurodivergent students.
This may include information about learning and assessment methods, support provided, and the contact details of the disability, mental health, and/or wellbeing support teams.
If you are cannot find the information you need, contact student support services at the university, who will be able to help you.
If you’re not sure what to ask when speaking to the support team, UCAS have put together a detailed checklist to help you get started – read their advice on speaking to student support services: https://www.ucas.com/undergraduate/applying-university/individual-needs/disabled-students/speaking-disability-support-team-or-mental-health-adviser
Disabled Students Allowances
Disabled Students Allowances
Start applying for DSAs as soon as possible – you don’t need a confirmed university place to apply!
Disabled Students' Allowances (DSAs) cover some of the extra study-related costs you incur due to an impairment, mental health condition, or learning difference. This is a non-repayable allowance which is in addition to other student finance.
The amount you’ll receive depends on your individual needs not on your income, nor that of your parents or partner. However, there are some restrictions on what you may use DSAs for and there are regional differences around the UK:
England: Student Finance England
Wales: Student Finance Wales
Scotland: Student Awards Agency Scotland
Northern Ireland: Student Finance NI
The Channel Islands and Isle of Man:
Top 3 things to be aware of...
Top 3 things to be aware of...
DSAs are available to full-time and part-time students at undergraduate and postgraduate level, including unpaid sandwich courses and distance learning courses lasting one year or more. Note: If you're planning to take an eligible healthcare or social work course, you should apply for your DSA through the NHS.
You don't have to have a confirmed university place to apply for DSAs. In fact, it's best to apply as early as possible but you can apply at any point during your studies. You can apply for DSAs when you apply for student finance.
You will be asked to provide proof of your impairment, condition, or learning difference (e.g. a diagnostic assessment of dyslexia, or a letter from a medical authority) and will be invited to attend a needs assessment once your application has been reviewed.
A short guide to the DSA by The University of Westminster
SFE Video Guide: What are Disabled Student Allowances?
Student-Specific Support
Student-Specific Support
Student Minds is the UK’s student mental health charity – visit their website for support and resources on coping with the challenges university life can bring. Website: https://www.studentminds.org.uk/
The University Mental Health Advisers Network (UMHAN) has a useful list of resources to support mental health and wellbeing, has some useful information, and how a mental health adviser can help.
Disability Rights UK publishes a comprehensive guide to applying to higher education, and getting support – Read Into Higher Education: https://www.disabilityrightsuk.org/intohe
Diversity and Ability is an organisation that works to improve inclusivity. Check out their guide to free resources to support disabled and neurodiverse students. We also recommend you read their DSA: Find your way page. Website: https://diversityandability.com/resources/
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