by UP Co-Founder and CEO, Emma Livingstone
Congratulations on your A-Level results! Starting university is a huge step, and it’s important that you get the right support to make the most of your new chapter. This guide will help you understand what support is available, how to access it, and who to talk to about your needs.
You do not have to face university alone. Support is there, but you need to take the first steps to request it. Once you do, your university can work with you to make sure your experience is accessible, positive, and empowering.
1. Understanding Your Rights
Equality Act 2010: UK universities must make reasonable adjustments so that disabled students are not disadvantaged.
You have the right to accessible teaching, accommodation, and campus facilities.
Support is available both from the university and from external funding.
Our advice: Attend open days early and ask about accessible routes, adapted housing, and available support
2. Applying for Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA)
DSA is government funding that covers extra study-related costs caused by your disability. It’s non-repayable and based on need, not income.
It can help pay for:
- Specialist equipment (e.g. adapted computer technology, ergonomic chairs).
- Non-medical helpers (e.g. note-takers, study mentors, support workers).
- Travel costs if you can’t use public transport.
How to apply:
1. Apply online through Student Finance England (or the equivalent body in Wales, Scotland, or Northern Ireland).
2. Provide medical evidence (a GP letter or consultant’s report).
3. Attend a needs assessment where an assessor helps decide what support will help you most.
Latest figures show that 29 % of eligible students in England and Wales received DSA
Our advice: Don’t wait until you start your course, DSA can take up to 14 weeks to be arranged
3. University Disability Services
- Every university has a Disability/Accessibility Services team
- Contact them as soon as you accept your place even before you move in.
They can arrange:
- Adjustments to teaching e.g. lecture recordings, extra time in exams.
- Liaison with academic staff to make sure they know about your needs.
- Specialist support workers on campus.
Our advice: Book a needs assessment/meeting even before you arrive to discuss support for teaching (technology, lecture access), exams and everyday life
4. Accessible Accommodation
Most universities have adapted rooms in student halls. These may include:
- Step-free access, widened doorways, wet rooms, grab rails.
- Adjustable desks or kitchen surfaces.
What to do:
- Let the Accommodation Office know early about your needs.
- Ask for a tour or photos before moving in.
- If university halls don’t meet your needs, the Disability Team can help arrange private, adapted housing.
Our advice: Attending open days is vital for disabled students to assess accessibility (e.g. accessible housing, signage, communication support), ask questions, and meet staff. If DSA-funded accommodation is more expensive, check if the university can cover the difference.
5. Use Accessible Technology and Academic Aids
The University will be able to support your access to your studies.
You can,
- request lecture materials in advance,
- Ask for information to be provided in accessible formats e.g larger-text handouts,
- You could be entitled to a note-taker, assistive software, and extra exam time
Common aids include dictation programs, specialist keyboards and software assistance.
6. Everyday Support at University
Universities should offer accessible buildings (ramps, lifts), flexible attendance (e.g. remote access), and accommodating accommodation layouts
Transport: Ask if the university offers accessible campus buses or priority parking.
Libraries & IT: Universities should provide accessible software, ergonomic furniture, and help with carrying/collecting books.
Clubs & Societies: You are entitled to access all aspects of student life. Disability Services can support clubs in making activities more inclusive.
7. Building Your Support Network
Peer support groups: University freshers week is a great place to start to find out the wide range of activities and societies available. Joining in with activities you enjoy is a great way of meeting like-minded people and friends. Many universities have disability societies and campaign groups. where you can connect with others too.
National charities
UP – Midweek Matters/ online groups (virtual community centre)
CP Sport www.cpsport.org supports accessible sports and fitness.
Disability Rights UK] www.disabilityrightsuk.org – provides information about education rights.
Personal contacts: Keep in touch with family, friends, and mentors, they can support you emotionally as well as practically.
8. Practical Tips for a Smooth Start
Be clear about your needs and follow up regularly—support systems can be slow and unclear our advice is:
• Stay connected: ask questions and keep in regular contact with your disability adviser.
• Start early: contact Disability Services and Accommodation Offices as soon as you know your firm choice.
• Be clear and confident: explain your needs, even if they seem obvious.
• Keep documents: have medical evidence and letters ready for applications.