Choosing a university as a disabled or neurodiverse student adds another layer of complication to an already difficult task, because it is really important all students get the help and support they deserve. Although University is often hailed as a time where this support is on offer, unfortunately not all universities have developed in such a way. In 2019, a report from the Higher Education Commission found that universities and similar institutions are failing their autistic students, leading them to drop out at a much higher rate than neurotypical students. Therefore, it is really important to spend some time researching universities that will help cater to your needs and make university life as accessible as possible for you. If the information is not readily available most websites have disability support emails you can contact directly.
The following list compiles data from Student Beans, HUMEN (Human University Mental Health League Table), and JamWorks. It consists of Universities with a range of entry requirements to ensure the options are suitable for a wide range of prospective students.
The best rated universities for disabled and neurodivergent students:
The University of Leeds
The University of Leeds is a widely praised choice for disabled and neurodivergent students, providing a dedicated disability services department for both current and prospective students. With nearly 20% of the student body having a disability, they offer a thorough package of support for all types of students and all types of conditions. This includes accessibility maps and buildings, adjustments such as extensions, accessible equipment and advanced lecture/presentation notes, adapted accommodation (including sensory adaptions) and facilities such as accessible study rooms and sports centre. Click here for more details!
The University of Manchester
The University of Manchester particularly standouts for its autism support; providing specialised support such as weekly social groups, tailored mentoring and individual disability advisors. With a similar population of disabled students as Leeds (19%), the support is wide ranging from exam/deadline adjustments, to technology and software adaptations and personal and academic mentoring. Click here for more information!
The University of Sheffield
This is one I can personally vouch for (click here for more on that), the University of Sheffield provides excellent support to disabled students, whether you have received an official diagnosis or not. The Disability and Dyslexia Support Service (DDSS) provide learning support plans with accommodations and adjustments to ensure your teaching staff are all aware of how your condition impacts you as an individual – most of my lecturers and seminar tutors have reached out personally to ensure they are doing everything they can to make sure their teaching is as accessible as possible. They also provide an individual support worker, have accessible accommodation and campus buildings and digital learning resources. More info here!
Nottingham Trent University
Nottingham Trent University is recognised for its support concerning disabilities with physical impacts in particular however they also provide support for neurodiverse conditions and mental health conditions too, for example, providing a disabled support officer. Nottingham Trent also scored highly in the student satisfaction aspect of the HUMEN league table. Click here for more info!
