How Can Students with Autism Access Support Services in Post-Secondary Education? 

For students with autism, transitioning into post-secondary education whether university, college, or vocational training can bring new challenges alongside exciting opportunities. Managing a new environment, workload, and social expectations often requires tailored support. Fortunately, UK colleges and universities provide a wide range of services designed to help autistic students succeed both academically and personally. 

According to the NICE guideline (CG128), early planning and open communication are essential to ensuring that autistic students receive the right level of support in higher education. 

1. Contact the Disability or Inclusion Support Team 

Every higher education institution in the UK has a Disability Support Service (sometimes called Inclusion or Student Support Services). These teams provide advice, coordinate reasonable adjustments, and connect students with resources. 

The DfE SEND Code of Practice (0–25 years) ensures that post-secondary providers must make reasonable adjustments under the Equality Act 2010, meaning they must remove barriers to participation. 

Students should: 

• Contact the Disability Support Team as soon as they accept an offer. 

• Provide relevant diagnostic or medical documentation to access support. 

• Schedule an initial needs assessment meeting to discuss adjustments. 

This early contact helps ensure that accommodations such as extra time, quiet study spaces, or assistive technology are in place before the first term begins. 

2. Apply for Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) 

The Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) is a government-funded support scheme that helps cover the costs of adjustments related to a disability, including autism. According to the DfE SEND Code of Practice, DSA can fund: 

• Specialist equipment (e.g., noise-cancelling headphones, assistive software). 

• One-to-one support from autism mentors or study skills tutors. 

• The travel costs of public transport are difficult to manage. 

Students can apply through their student finance provider, and support continues throughout their course. 

3. Access Academic and Sensory Accommodations 

The RCSLT Autism Guidance (2025) and NHS National Autism Team highlight that universities and colleges must recognise the diverse sensory and communication needs of autistic students. 

Support may include: 

• Quiet spaces for study or rest. 

• Alternative exam arrangements, such as smaller rooms or extra time. 

• Visual learning materials and pre-lecture notes. 

• Flexibility with attendance or deadlines during sensory or mental health challenges. 

Students should discuss these needs during their initial assessment, so they are formally documented in a Learning Support Plan (LSP). 

4. Connect with Mental Health and Peer Support Services 

Autistic students often benefit from additional emotional or social support when adjusting to post-secondary life. The DfE’s Whole School SEND Programme encourages institutions to offer neurodiversity-aware mental health services and peer mentoring schemes. 

Support options include: 

• Autism-friendly counselling or wellbeing services. 

• Peer mentoring programmes that connect autistic students with trained mentors. 

• Neurodiversity societies or student networks offering community and belonging. 

Engaging with these services early can make a significant difference to wellbeing and adjustment. 

5. Maintain Ongoing Communication 

The NICE guidance (CG128) emphasises the importance of maintaining consistent communication between students, families, and support teams. Regular check-ins help ensure that accommodation remains appropriate as the course progresses. 

Students are encouraged to: 

• Schedule review meetings each term with support services. 

• Provide feedback on what is or isn’t working. 

• Reach out immediately if academic or emotional challenges arise. 

Consistent dialogue allows support systems to adapt in real time and promotes student autonomy. 

Reassuring Insight for Parents and Educators 

Post-secondary education can be a fulfilling experience for students with autism when the right support is in place. By accessing disability services, applying for DSA, and maintaining open communication, students can build confidence, independence, and success. 

If you’d like expert guidance to better understand your child’s educational progress and sensory needs, Autism Detect offers comprehensive autism assessments for both adults and children.