'If you have a disability and are planning on studying in the UK is plenty of support to help you during your studies.'
Xirong He from China, talks about her experience of studying in the UK with a disability. Find out about her latest venture - The Sense Project - and discover how a UK education has changed her life.
As you may have seen during the very successful 2012 London Paralympic Games, the UK is a welcoming and supportive environment for people with disabilities.
In general, UK schools, colleges and universities offer good support to students with disabilities and learning difficulties. However, services will vary and you may encounter some challenges. You might also have to pay for some services.
Before you enroll on a UK course, we strongly recommend that you check with your chosen school, college or university what support they can provide, and if there are any additional costs. Here are a few topics you may want to ask about:
In general, UK schools, colleges and universities offer good support to students with disabilities and learning difficulties. However, services will vary and you may encounter some challenges. You might also have to pay for some services.
Before you enroll on a UK course, we strongly recommend that you check with your chosen school, college or university what support they can provide, and if there are any additional costs. Here are a few topics you may want to ask about:
- Most schools, colleges and universities have disabled routes that are wheelchair friendly. These will either be step-free or have lift access. Many also offer accessible housing accommodation for disabled students. However, some old buildings may pose a challenge. Check with your chosen institution about their accessibility
- Depending on your needs, you may be able to access Braille text and tutor recordings, or get help from note-takers during lessons. You may also be entitled to extra time during examinations and additional support
- For deaf students, audio induction loop systems are widely available, as well as print-outs of lectures. Some institutions also have computer aids, including text-to-speech technology, transcription services and magnification software. Check with your institution what they offer
- Signers in the UK generally use British Sign Language; if you require signing in another language, check with the disability adviser whether any provision can be made for this.
- Your school, college or university should also be able to arrange regular meetings between you and a disability adviser, or even a local doctor if needed
Support organisations
The UK’s National Union of Students’ disability campaign is the voice of UK students' with disabilities and provides support for students with a huge range of disabilities. The campaign runs quality checks to make sure that students have the access they need, and it's a great network to get involved with.
The United Kingdom Disabled People’s Council (UKDPC) represents people with disabilities living in the UK and can provide additional resources.
Further information on the rights of disabled students in the UK is also available from the Equality and Human Rights Commission.
