College, university and further learning after school

In short

• There are many routes after school, including college, sixth form, supported internships, apprenticeships and university.
• In England, an EHC plan can continue until the young person is 25 if they are still in education or training.
• Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA) is available for many students in higher education, with separate application routes in each nation.
• Most universities have a disability support service that can arrange adjustments.
• Telling UCAS about a disability is optional, but it can help the university arrange support early.

Options after 16

Options after Year 11 include:

• a sixth form or sixth form college
• a further education college, with courses for young people with additional needs
• a supported internship, which combines study with work placements, in England
• an apprenticeship, which combines paid work with training
• a specialist provision, if the young person needs a particular kind of setting

Think about what would suit your child or young person. Consider their interests, how they manage routine and change, and what kinds of support they need to succeed. Visit places in person if you can, and ask about the support available and how it is planned.

EHC plans in England

In England, EHC plans can continue for young people in further education and training up to the age of 25. The council must review the plan and decide whether the young person still needs it. Ask for the review to focus on post-16 goals, such as course choices, independent living and work experience.

Outside England, the rules differ. In Scotland, Coordinated Support Plans can support young people in further education. In Wales, the Individual Development Plan framework has its own rules for young people up to the upper age limit set in law. Check the position for your nation.

Disabled Students' Allowance

Disabled Students' Allowance is a non-repayable allowance for students in higher education who have a disability, long-term health condition, mental health condition or specific learning difficulty. It helps with extra costs linked to the student's course, such as specialist equipment or support workers. It is based on individual need.

To apply, you usually need to be eligible for student finance, and you need supporting evidence, often from a qualified professional. Apply through the student finance body for your nation:

• England: Student Finance England
• Scotland: the Student Awards Agency for Scotland (SAAS)
• Wales: Student Finance Wales
• Northern Ireland: Student Finance NI

Courses funded through NHS bursaries are handled differently. Check with the relevant body if you are studying a health or social care course.

University disability support

Universities have disability services that can help before and during your course. They can arrange exam adjustments, quiet study spaces, support with a study plan, and help with the transition to university life. Some offer a mentor or a support worker.

Contact the disability service early, ideally before the course starts. Many universities arrange a needs assessment or a meeting before term begins.

Applying through UCAS

If you apply to university in England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland, you apply through UCAS. The application includes a section where you can say whether you have a disability or long-term health condition. Disclosure is optional. The information is used to arrange support rather than to decide on your application.

You do not need a formal diagnosis to share a condition through UCAS, though you may need evidence later for DSA.

Practical steps

• Visit colleges and universities, and ask about their disability support.
• Ask the school or college about post-16 options before Year 11 ends.
• Check your DSA deadlines with your student finance body.
• Contact the university disability service before you start.
• Keep copies of evidence, such as reports and letters, in one place.

This guide is general information, not legal advice.