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University (higher education)

University is an option you can choose after school or college.

It can be a chance to:

  • explore a subject you enjoy
  • gain a qualification
  • learn new skills
  • think about what you want for your future.

Many students use university to try new experiences, build their confidence and meet people with similar interests. For some people, it is also a chance to discover what they enjoy and find a community where they feel they belong.

If you have a special educational need or disability (SEND), there is support available to help you succeed, make the most of university life and feel part of the community.

Everyone's journey is different. What matters is finding the option that feels right for you and helps you reach your goals.

Not sure if university is right for you?

If you're thinking about going to university, it can help to:

  • talk to your teacher, tutor or careers adviser
  • look at university websites to find out more
  • visit an open day and ask questions
  • take a virtual tour if you cannot visit in person

There is no right or wrong choice. Think about what is important to you and what you want from your next step.

Still unsure? Visit:

Find a university

University can fit around your life. You can:

  • move to the town or city where your university is
  • study at a university near you and live at home
  • study some or all your course online.

Find a university.

Support for students with disabilities

If you have a disability or SEND, universities can offer support to help you feel confident, take part and do your best.

Universities can offer help with things like:

  • extra help with studying
  • equipment to help you study
  • support with your health or wellbeing
  • changes to help you learn (sometimes called reasonable adjustments).

These teams may be called:

  • disability support team
  • student support
  • wellbeing team.

If you want to go to university, get in touch with the support team early.

More information and help

To find out more, visit the UCAS website for students with disability support. Or you can also get help from:

Or watch this video on how to make the most of university as a student with a disability.

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Read the Making the Most of University video transcript

Apply to university

You can apply for university through UCAS.

When you apply, tell the university about any support you need. This can help the university arrange:

  • support before you start
  • help if you need to attend an interview
  • support when you visit on an open day.

Telling the university about your support needs

It is a good idea to tell the university about your needs as early as possible. This gives them time to put support in place and make changes to help you succeed.

It is against the law for a university to treat you unfairly because of your disability.

If you are worried that asking for support could affect your application, try not to be. Universities are there to help you.

Find out more about the process on the UCAS website.

After you accept your place

When you accept your university place, reach out to their support team. They can talk to you about:

  • the help available
  • services that can help you
  • information and support that may help you.

Getting ready for university

Some universities offer summer schools or short courses before you start. These can help you:

  • get used to a new place
  • meet other students
  • feel more confident before your course starts

Ask your university what support is available.

For more help with moving to university, visit the Student Minds website.

Money and financial support

You may be able to get a student loan to help pay for your course. Find out more on the UCAS student finance webpage or read the Disability Rights UK factsheet.

If you have an education, health and care (EHC) plan, it will end when you go to university.

You may still be able to get other support, including: