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Higher education

Higher education often refers to studying at university from the age of 18.

When you go to university, your educational health care (EHC) plan stops. However, there are a variety of funding options and support available to you.

University

A university course often takes three years to complete. It can lead to a qualification. To go to university you may:

Find a university.

Before you apply

Not sure if university is for you? You should:

  • talk with your teacher or careers advisor about your thoughts
  • visit the university's website to find out more about them
  • go to an open day to see the campus and ask any questions you may have. If you cannot attend an open day, check to see if they have a virtual tour on their website. Or you may be able to to arrange a visit on another date.

Every university has a disability team that can help you get the support you need. They're usually called student support, wellbeing team, or disability team. Visit UCAS's disabled students support page to learn more.

For more help visit:

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

To apply complete your application via UCAS.

Don't forget to let your chosen university know your needs. This information can help to put in place any:

  • support before you arrive
  • access needs for interviews
  • requirements needed for open days.

Asking for support on your application

It's best to share information about the help you need right away. By doing this, they can make reasonable adjustments and give you the support you deserve.

It's against the law for the university to discriminate against you. If you're worried it'll affect your application or you'll be treated differently, don't be.

Find out more about the process on the UCAS website.

After you have accepted your offer

After you accept the offer, contact the university to set up support. They will also let you know about services and resources available to you.

Support with the move to university

You may be able to attend a summer school or complete summer courses to help you move to university. Summer activities can help you if you find settling into new environments uneasy. Ask your university to see if they can help you.

For support with your transition visit the Student Minds website.

Financial support

To see if you can get a student loan, visit GOV.UK website.

If you have an educational health care (EHC) plan, your EHC plan will stop. To help you during your time at university you may be eligible for:

For more funding support, read the Disability Rights UK factsheet.