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Supporting disabled students

More than one in four students who apply through UCAS each year share a disability. Disabled students are entitled to reasonable adjustments to ensure they can access higher education, and they will find a variety of support available.

Education 2026 personal statement guide

Go beyond teaching in your education personal statement, to really explain your passion and interest in how we learn, the role of education today, and how we can shape learning environments.

Disabled students

Every year, over 100,000 disabled students (also known as students with special educational needs and disabilities, or SEND for short) apply through UCAS to study at a university or college in the UK – including mental health conditions, learning differences, and long-term health conditions. Students can access a range of support to help them succeed with their studies, day-to-day activities, travel, and lifestyle.

Disabled students: Researching your choices

Our best advice: start your research early. Alongside your research into courses and universities, you may also need to take your individual support needs into account when making your choices.

DSA eligibility FAQs

Our FAQs will help you find out if you're eligible for the Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA).

HE provider good practice briefing for students from UK Armed Forces Families (Service children)

This briefing is for staff working in universities and colleges and supports the introduction of the new UCAS flag to identify students from UK Armed Forces families, from 2023 entry. We have worked with the Service Children’s Progression (SCiP) Alliance and the Ministry of Defence to outline the common challenges for these students, share good practice around the UK, and provide considerations ahead of the new question.

Other funding for full-time students

Depending on what and where you choose to study, you may be eligible for additional sources of funding. Content provided by Student Finance England.

Supported internships

Facts about supported internships: who's eligible, how the study programme works, and who to contact for more information.

Disabled students: Financial support

Having a disability or mental health condition might mean incurring additional costs (e.g. access to specialist equipment) when accessing higher education. But don’t worry, there is financial support available.

Supporting students with mental health conditions

Students can access a variety of support to manage their mental health and wellbeing in higher education – ranging from help with a specific condition through to ways they can look after their general wellbeing.