University and higher education

Higher education could be your next step after college, sixth form or an apprenticeship.

You can do higher education courses at:

universities
some further education colleges
specialist colleges, like art schools
online, such as the Open University

Find out more about higher education on the Skills for Careers website.

Going to university

The UCAS website tells you how to get support at university to meet your needs, including mental health conditions, learning differences, and long-term health conditions.

Find out more about support on the UCAS website.

If you have an Education, Health and care Plan (EHCP)

Your EHCP will end when you start higher education or paid work. You can still get the support you need to meet your needs.

You can give a copy of your EHCP to the university you are planning to attend. The Special Educational Needs and Disability Information and Advice Service (SENDIASS ) can help you with this.

Find out more on the SENDIASS website.

Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA)

If you are a student with a learning disability or long-term health condition, you may be eligible for Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA).

DSA can help you buy any specialist equipment or support needed to meet your needs while you study.

Find out more on GOV.UK about Disabled students allowance.

You might also be able to get financial help such as bursaries, scholarships, and hardship funds. Find out more about extra money to pay for university on GOV.UK.

Personal care and support

You may also need help with everyday living. You can contact adult social care and ask them for a needs assessment.

If you already have a social worker, ask them about getting an assessment.

Find out more about requesting an adult social care needs assessment.

University and higher education