Starting university is an exciting milestone that brings new experiences, independence, and the chance to form lifelong friendships. However, it can also be a daunting time, especially when living away from home for the first time without the familiar support of parents, friends, or teachers. This transition can be challenging for any student, but for neurodivergent students, the pressures can feel even greater, with heightened feelings of anxiety and uncertainty about what lies ahead.

The scaffolding of support that existed at home—be it from family, teachers, or structured routines—may no longer be readily available. However, the good news is that universities today are more aware than ever of neurodevelopmental conditions and specific learning difficulties (SpLDs), such as ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, and DCD/Dyspraxia. Under the Equality Act 2010, UK universities are required to make “reasonable adjustments” for students whose conditions have lasted “12 months or more” and have “a substantial and long-term adverse effect on their ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities.”

Whether you have already received a diagnosis or suspect you might have a neurodevelopmental condition, there is support available to help you navigate university life successfully. Here are some top tips to access study support and make the most of your time at university:

Top Tips for Accessing Study Support at University

1. Contact the Learning Support or Disability Support Team

Your university’s Learning Support or Disability Support Team is your first point of contact. Details on how to reach them are usually available on the university’s website. They can guide you through the process of accessing support and help you understand what accommodations may be available.

2. Ensure You Have Your Diagnostic Report

If you have been diagnosed with a specific learning difficulty such as dyslexia, make sure you have a copy of your diagnostic report. For SpLDs, this report must be written by a Level 7 Specialist Teacher Assessor or Chartered Psychologist in accordance with The SpLD Assessment Standards Committee (SASC) guidelines.

3. Provide Evidence for Other Conditions

Conditions like Autism typically require a doctor’s letter or a Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) Evidence form that specifies the condition and explains how it substantially impacts your academic studies. The evidence must show that the condition has lasted more than 12 months.

4. Seek Support if You Are Undiagnosed but Experiencing Difficulties

If you suspect you may have an undiagnosed condition affecting your academic performance, speak to the Learning Support or Disability Support Team. They may refer you to an in-house team for an assessment, through partner organisations, or you may consider a private assessment.

5. Explore Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA)

A formal diagnosis can make you eligible for DSA, which provides funding for a range of support services, including study skills tutoring, travel assistance, ergonomic equipment, and assistive technology software with training.

6. Attend Academic Skills Training

Most universities offer academic skills training sessions that are generally available to all students. These courses cover essential skills such as academic writing, referencing, study techniques, and revision strategies, which can help you build effective study habits and improve your performance.

7. Make Early Contact with Support Teams

The start of term is a busy time for both students and staff, so it’s best to reach out to the Learning Support Team as early as possible, even before term begins, to ensure that your support is set up when you start your course.

How PAM Wellness Can Help

At PAM Wellness, we offer diagnostic education services specifically designed for students. We work directly with several universities and can also support students who wish to have a private assessment. Whether you need help obtaining a diagnosis or accessing the support you’re entitled to, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.

To find out more about how we can support you, please email us at education@tohealth.co.uk.

References

*Equality Act 2010. Available at https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2010/15/contents (Accessed August 2024)

Navigating university as a neurodivergent student can be challenging, but with the right support and resources, you can thrive and make the most of your university experience. Remember, help is available—don’t hesitate to reach out and access the support that’s there for you.