Whether you’re in school, college or university, there is a range of support available to help disabled students access education. This guide answers some of the most common questions using official UK guidance.
What support is available for disabled students?
Schools, colleges and universities should take reasonable steps to remove barriers that place disabled students at a disadvantage. Support will depend on your individual needs and your education setting, but may include reasonable adjustments, specialist equipment, learning support, accessible materials or communication support.
What are reasonable adjustments?
Reasonable adjustments are changes that help disabled students access education on an equal basis with others. Examples include extra time in exams, accessible learning materials, assistive technology, adapted teaching methods or changes to classroom layouts. Education providers have duties under the Equality Act 2010 to make reasonable adjustments where appropriate.
Do I have to tell my school, college or university that I’m disabled?
No. You are not generally required to disclose your disability. However, if your education provider does not know about your disability or health condition, it may be harder for them to provide appropriate support or reasonable adjustments.
What is Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA)?
Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) helps eligible higher education students with the extra study-related costs they face because of a disability, long-term health condition, mental health condition or specific learning difficulty. It is separate from Student Finance, is not means-tested and does not have to be repaid.
What can Disabled Students’ Allowance pay for?
Depending on your needs, DSA may help pay for:
- Specialist equipment
- Assistive software
- Non-medical helpers such as note takers or BSL interpreters
- Additional travel costs where a disability prevents you using public transport
The support provided depends on your individual needs rather than your household income.
What is an EHCP?
An Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) is a legal document for some children and young people with more complex special educational needs or disabilities. It sets out the support they need and can continue up to the age of 25 in certain circumstances.
Can universities refuse reasonable adjustments?
Universities have legal responsibilities under the Equality Act 2010 to make reasonable adjustments for disabled students where appropriate. If you believe suitable adjustments have not been considered, you should speak to your university’s disability support service in the first instance.
What should I do if I need support?
Speak to your school’s SENCO, your college’s learning support team or your university’s disability support service as early as possible. They can discuss your needs and explain the support available.
Can I get support for a mental health condition?
Yes. Many education providers support students with mental health conditions. If you’re eligible, Disabled Students’ Allowance may also provide support for study-related needs arising from a mental health condition.
Can I get help if I have dyslexia, ADHD or autism?
Yes. Many students with dyslexia, ADHD, autism and other disabilities or long-term health conditions may be eligible for reasonable adjustments and, in higher education, Disabled Students’ Allowance if they meet the eligibility requirements.
Where can I find more information?
You can find official guidance from:
- GOV.UK
- Student Finance England
- Your school, college or university
- Your local authority (for EHCPs)