Lydia went to the University of Surrey and studied physics. She now studies at the University of Kent for an MSC in research. She is autistic, dyslexic, and has anxiety. Here are her tips for neurodivergent or disabled students who are planning to go to university:
Before starting
➡️ Research the university
Look at the support on offer at the university.
➡️ Go to open days
Talk to the disability team and ask what support they provide.
➡️ Apply for Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA)
This gave me access to assistive technology and a specialist autism mentor.
Learn more: Disabled Students’ Allowance | UCAS
➡️ Plan your accommodation
The disability team can support you to get preferred accommodation if you need a certain accommodation type because of your disability. They may decrease the cost for you.
When you start
➡️ Get familiar with the campus
➡️ Get to know the disability team, their location, and how to contact them
➡️ Set up your supports
➡️ Find safe spaces on campus
➡️ Join societies, they are a great place to get to know new people with similar interests
Other tips
- NUS is the National Student Union – they provide a paid student discount scheme, TOTUM
- UNiDAYS and Student Beans are free student discount apps
- Look at student bank accounts and perks they provide
- If you are not bringing a TV you don’t need a TV license as you are covered by your parents’ TV license, as long as you only watch on devices that aren’t plugged into the mains
