If you’re a student with a disability or learning difficulty and are entering (or have already entered) a higher education institution, you may be eligible for extra disability support from your university and the government to help you through your studies. Disability support can come in many forms, but is provided to ensure that students with a disability, learning difficulty or medical condition have the same educational opportunities as a student without.

Universities in the UK are legally obligated to make adjustments (within reason) to make the campus and programmes accessible to students with a disability. However, some adjustments will need funding from outside the university. This is where Disabled Students’ Allowances come in. This is where a funding agency will provide finances for extra support, such as a note taker for your lectures, someone to collect your library book and make photocopies, or a technological device such as an iPad. The amount of money will vary depending on your condition, but does not need to be paid back regardless of the amount. The funding agencies vary depending on whether you live in England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland. You can find more information about which agency to apply to from Disability Rights UK or UCAS.

So who qualifies? Well, if you have a disability, learning difficulty (such as dyslexia), long-term medical condition (such as depression) or a mental health condition, you may be eligible. You’ll likely need a note from your doctor (you’ll have to check the specific requirements for each funding agency) stating your condition. If you qualify and are given financial assistance, this might be paid directly to you or to the university who will provide the support service.

And how can you get more information? If you’re just starting to apply to universities (or are visiting on open days), it might be worth asking about the Disabilty Support Service and go in for a chat. This service will often be based within Student Services. They can give you information about what support will be provided, and how they can accommodate your needs if you decide to attend that institution. If you’re already in university but are not receiving any support but think maybe you should be, you can again find the support service and make an appointment to talk about your options. Often each department will also have a member of staff who is appointed as a Disability Support Officer and who provides another point of contact for the service. You should be able to find information about who to speak to (and some of the services provided) on the university’s website.

The point is that there are lots of services to make sure that students with various needs can receive support to get through their degree. If you think this would be useful to you, get in touch with your Support Service and find out how they can help you make the most out of your education.