Going to University with SEND

University can be an exciting opportunity to continue learning, develop new skills and work towards your future career goals.

Many young people with SEND go to university every year. Universities offer support to help students access learning and take part in university life.

This page explains how university works, what support is available and what you may need to think about before applying.

On This Page

• Is this page for me?

• What is university?

• Is university right for me?

• What support is available?

• What happens to my EHCP?

• Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA)

• Student finance

• Living away from home

• Applying through UCAS

• Preparing for university

Is This Page for Me?

This page is for you if you:

• Are studying at college or sixth form

• Are thinking about university

• Want to know what support is available

• Want to understand how applications work

Parents, carers and professionals may also find this information helpful.

What Is University?

University is a type of higher education.

People usually attend university after completing A Levels, a Level 3 qualification or another recognised course.

University courses can help you:

• Develop specialist knowledge

• Work towards a degree

• Build career skills

• Become more independent

• Meet new people

Is University Right for Me?

University is one of many options available after college or sixth form.

It may be right for you if:

• You enjoy studying

• You want to continue learning

• Your chosen career requires a degree

• You feel ready for more independent learning

There is no right or wrong choice. Different pathways work for different people.

Support Available at University

Universities provide a range of support services for students with SEND.

Support may include:

• Disability advisers

• Study skills support

• Specialist equipment

• Mentoring

• Exam arrangements

• Accessible accommodation

• Mental health and wellbeing services

Every university is different, so it is important to ask what support is available.

Contact the Disability Support Team Early

Every university has a disability or inclusion team.

Contact them before you start your course so they can:

• Understand your needs

• Discuss available support

• Arrange reasonable adjustments

• Help you prepare for university life

The earlier you contact them, the easier it is to put support in place.

What Happens to My EHCP?

EHCPs do not continue at university.

However, this does not mean support ends.

Universities have their own systems for supporting students with disabilities and additional needs.

It is important to speak to the university's disability support team before your course begins.

You may also be able to receive support through Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA).

Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA)

Disabled Students' Allowance can help pay for disability-related support while studying.

This might include:

• Specialist equipment

• Assistive software

• Study support

• Non-medical helpers

DSA is separate from student finance and does not need to be repaid.

Student Finance

Many students apply for student finance to help cover:

• Tuition fees

• Accommodation costs

• Living expenses

The amount available depends on individual circumstances.

You should research funding options before making decisions about university.

Living Away From Home

Some students stay at home while studying.

Others move into university accommodation.

Living away from home can help you develop:

• Cooking skills

• Budgeting skills

• Time management

• Travel confidence

• Independent living skills

Before deciding, think about the support you may need and what will work best for you.

Applying Through UCAS

Most university applications are made through UCAS.

UCAS allows you to:

• Search for courses

• Apply to universities

• Track your applications

• Receive decisions

Before applying, it can help to:

• Attend open days

• Compare courses

• Visit campuses

• Contact disability support teams

• Ask questions about support and accommodation

Preparing for University

Starting university can feel like a big change.

Before you begin, think about:

• How you will manage your time

• Travel arrangements

• Accommodation options

• Managing money

• Support for your health and wellbeing

• Who to contact if you need help

Planning ahead can make the transition easier.

Next Steps

Still deciding what to do after school or college?

Your Education, Training and Employment Options

Looking at colleges and sixth forms?

Choosing the Right College

Interested in employment instead?

Finding Work and Employment Support

Looking for independent living advice?

Independent Living and Getting Around