Starting at university or college is an exciting time, but getting used to a new environment can also be challenging. It’s a good idea to start planning early, to make sure that your young person gets the support they need.

Choosing a place of study

Depending on the subjects your young person wants to study, there may be many different courses to choose from. Some are taught at colleges, which may offer A/AS levels, foundation skills, life skills, diploma and vocational courses. Others are offered at degree level at universities, via Further Education colleges or through distance learning.

Location and environment

Your young person may prefer studying away from home or consider staying in the local area. When choosing a place to study, it’s worth considering transport links and how easy it is to reach a particular college or university. It’s also a good idea to think about other factors such as the layout of the campus or class sizes, which may affect how comfortable your young person feels in the surroundings. Attending university or college open days can be helpful in making these decisions.

Accessing funding and support

There are a number of funding options available for students with disabilities, that autistic young people may be eligible to claim. Universities and colleges are also required to offer additional support for disabled students, also known as reasonable adjustments.

Click on the links below to find more advice on making the transition to college or university and where to find support.