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Disabled students

Every year, over 100,000 disabled students 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.

This content was developed with support from The National Association of Disability Practitioners (NADP), Diversity and Ability (D&A), Disabled Students' Commission (DSC), Advance HE, Disability Rights UK (DRUK), LEAD Scotland, and Whizz Kidz.  

Disabled students: Researching your choices
Alongside your research into courses and universities, you may also need to take your individual support needs into account when making your choices. 
Sharing a disability or mental health condition in the UCAS application
It's really important to tell your university or college about your individual needs as early as possible – this will ensure any adjustments and support are in place before you arrive. 
Speaking to the disability adviser, mental health adviser or student support team
Teams are in place to make sure students get the right support – this guide will help you get the information you need to make an informed decision.
Students watching podcast on laptop

The One in Five Podcast

The One in Five Podcast is a series created by disabled students, for disabled students thinking about going to university. You can listen to the One in Five student panel talking about a range of topics based on their lived experience by clicking the episode links below.

Listen now

Preparing for open days and visits
Open days are a valuable way of finding out about a uni or college first-hand – tour the facilities, speak to staff and students, and get a feel for whether you would like to study there.
Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA)
The DSA scheme aims to ensure everyone has the support and adjustments they need to succeed during their studies.
Financial support
Having a disability or mental health condition might mean incurring additional costs (e.g. access to specialist equipment). But don’t worry, there is financial support available.
Accommodation for disabled students
If you’re a disabled student or have different learning needs, and are thinking about your university accommodation options, there are a few things you’ll want to consider.
Support with transition to university
A new start can make you feel excited and nervous – there’s a lot to think about. Our advice will help you prepare for higher education.
Mental health and wellbeing
Whatever stage of life you’re at, there will be excitement and challenges. There’s a wealth of resources out there to help you through every stage.
Disabled international students
There is a range of support available to help you with your studies and lifestyle at university – you just need to let the university know so they can help put this in place.
Further information and support
Our useful resources have lots of expert advice for disabled students, to help you get the support you need to succeed in your higher education journey.
Interested in an apprenticeship?
Being disabled shouldn’t limit your job or study choice, and apprenticeships can be a great route for you to get into your chosen career.

This guide has been produced with input from stakeholders from across the sector and with support from Advance HE, with the aim of helping disabled applicants better navigate and understand the application process to university in Scotland.  

Guide for disabled applicants