Essential guide: Going to university as a wheelchair user

Our Kidz Board is a group of wheelchair users who raise awareness about the

issues that affect young people. They’ve created a guide on going to university that’s full of things to think about when preparing to apply. Get expert advice from disabled students on selecting a suitable university, finding the right accommodation and support through your studies.

Step 1: What do you want from university?

Before you start filling out forms or making plans to visit universities, the young people we spoke to recommend you take some time to think about what you want from a university and from a course.

Here are some things to consider:

• Course choice: Focus on the subjects you’re passionate about and the style of learning that suits you. It’s important to think about a career, but you’re signing up for at least three years, so you’ll want to choose a subject you’re passionate about.
• Funding: It costs an average £23,000 per year to study at university (including tuition). While you may be eligible for Disabled Students’ Allowance, this may not cover all the costs, so you’ll need to plan on how to make up the shortfall.
• Location: Do you want to be close to home, or are you ready to move away? Staying at home can be cheaper, but you may have more freedom and independence studying away.
• Accessibility: Think about how you’ll get to lectures, access lecture theatres, libraries, accommodation, and the wider campus. You can search for information online, but you will probably need to speak with the university for more details.

Writing down your priorities can help you in discussions with friends, family and teachers. When you’re ready to start your research, this list can help you compare universities with a clear list of requirements.

You can use this list to chat with the Student Services team at any university you’re thinking of applying to. They should be able to answer your questions.

Step 2: Research universities with accessibility in mind

Every university has a legal duty to support disabled students, but the level of accessibility to campuses, accommodation, entertainment and other essential services can vary, our students told us.

Here are some things to check:

• Read the university’s disability services pages. Look for clear information about adjustments, facilities, and support.
• Check accommodation. Are there adapted rooms, step-free access, or options close to campus? Is the university willing and able to provide adaptations to your requirements?
• Explore teaching styles. Some courses rely heavily on group work, labs, or field trips which may be a challenge for you. Check that support is available and adjustments are possible.
• Visit campuses. When you’ve narrowed down your list, open days (in-person or online) provide a snapshot into what life is like at the university. You can also ask direct questions of students and support services staff when you are there.

Our youth experts recommend keeping notes as you go. It can be easy to forget details, especially if you’re viewing or comparing lots of universities.

Step 3: Understand your rights as a disabled person

UK universities have a legal duty to follow the Equality Act 2010. This should help to protect disabled students from discrimination, meaning that:

• You cannot be treated less favourably because of your disability.
• Universities must make “reasonable adjustments” so you can access teaching, exams, and facilities on an equal basis.
• You have the right to complain if support is not provided.

It’s important that you know your rights, especially when applying to universities and studying. 

You should contact Student Services as soon as possible and talk to them about you and your disability and discuss what adaptations may be required. They should be available to provide ongoing support, including dealing with any problems that come up during your study time.

While we hope you won’t ever need it, knowing your legal rights puts you in the strongest position when dealing with your university.

Step 4: Apply for Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA)

DSA is government funding that covers the extra study-related costs you may have because of a disability.

The good news is that it’s not means-tested, and you don’t need to repay it.

Disabled Students’ Allowance can be used to pay for study costs, including:

• Specialist equipment, including screen readers, ergonomic chairs, and other furniture you might need.
• Non-medical helpers, including note-takers and study skills support.
• Extra travel costs you might need to pay for.
• General expenses, like a laptop, printing, paper, or anything else you might need for studying.

Applying for DSA can take months, so it’s a good idea to start as early as possible. Depending on you and your circumstances, you may need to do an assessment.

Step 5: Tell your university about your disability as soon as possible

You may not want to discuss your disability but telling your university about you and 

your needs gives them the chance to put adaptations in place.

You can do this at different stages of the process:

• During application: You can provide information on your disability on your UCAS form.
• Before arrival: Once accepted to a course, you can speak to your university’s student services team.
• During your course: If your needs change you should update the university as soon as possible. They should provide any support that you need to study.

The university Student Services (or whatever they call it) exists to help you. They won’t know you need any extra support unless you tell them.

Step 6: Plan what academic adjustments you might need

Once you’ve told your university about your disability, then can provide adjustments to help you study. This depends on you and your disability, but can include:

• Extra time in exams
• Coursework deadline extensions
• Lecture recordings
• Accessible learning materials
• Alternative assessment formats

Details of adjustments should be provided in something called a support plan. This is sometimes called an Individual Learning Plan. Take the time to read the plan and make sure you agree with it.

If your situation changes, the plan can be adapted.

Step 7: Think about accommodation and daily living

University isn’t all about learning, it’s also about developing your independence. If you’re moving away from home, you’ll want to make sure your living arrangements are safe and suitable for you.

Some things to consider include:

• Accessible halls: Lots of universities offer adapted rooms with wider doors, grab rails, and en-suite bathrooms.
• Location: Living in accommodation that’s close to the campus and its lecture theatres, libraries, and medical services can reduce stress.
• Personal assistants or carers: Your university should help coordinate with any external providers like personal assistants or carers if you need specialist help.
• Funding: As well as DSA, some of the accommodation and daily living costs may be covered by your local authority or through benefits. Don’t rely on the internet. Instead, speak to Student Services to get more information and advice.

Step 8: Build a support network

University can be a challenge for anyone. It pays to get support when you need it, whether you’re disabled or not.

You’ll need to develop your own network, but support can come from:

• University staff: Connect with disability advisers, tutors, and student support services.
• Students: Join societies and disability networks and make friends who understand your experiences.
• External organisations: You can speak with charities and advocacy groups that specialise in student support, including (need some examples).

While university is all about creating new connections, your friends, family and carers should still be there to support you.

Step 9: Prioritise your wellbeing

University is exciting with load of new experiences, but it can become overwhelming. Some of our young people provided some practical advice, including:

• Balance work and rest. Plan in some relaxation. Downtime can be as important as study time, and rest and relaxation can help you recharge.
• Stay connected. Isolation as a student can be common. Make the most of the experience and join clubs and online communities that interest you.
• Ask for help early. If you are struggling, our experts recommend getting help from a counselling service, GP, or helplines. (Need examples)

Step 10: Know what to do if things go wrong

Things can and do go wrong, but there is always help available. Here are some of the things our young people recommend:

• Talk to your disability adviser. They’re your first port of call for any issues you might be experiencing. They should have access to your Individual Learning Plan and information on you.
• Raise issues with your department. If you’re having issues with studying, course leaders, lecturers, and tutors may be able to make quick changes.
• Don’t be afraid to use the complaints process. Every university has a formal route for making complaints. If you do this, be sure to know your rights.
• Go external. If you’re involved in a dispute with your university, the The Office of the Independent Adjudicator (OIA) can step in if necessary.