🧭 Navigating Disability Support at St Andrews: A Guide for Prospective Students
So, you’ve explored the University of St Andrews, chatted with lecturers, and decided this is the place for you—fantastic! 🎉 If you will need any support while studying here, it’s never too early to start planning. Here’s everything you need to know about the Disability Service and how they can help you every step of the way. 🏫✨
Thinking of Applying? Here’s What to Do Next
Before you even submit your application, reaching out to the Disability Team is a great idea. They can chat with you about the support available and ensure you have everything you need to thrive at university. 📚💡
What Can the Disability Service Do for You?
- Arrange a visit to the University 🏛️ so you can explore the facilities and discuss accessibility concerns. If an in-person visit isn’t possible, virtual visiting days and online events are also available.
- Why not book on to a Talk and Tour event?
Accepted an Offer? Time to Get Organised!
Whether your offer is conditional or unconditional, now is the perfect time to set up the support you’ll need. Here’s how the Disability Service can assist you before you even arrive: ✍️🎒
If you declared a disability on your university application form or via UCAS, our advisers can start discussing your support options before you begin your studies.
- If you have received a conditional offer and declared a disability on your application form you will automatically receive an email containing some general guidance about our support services and the Disability Service contact details, should you wish to ask any specific questions.
- If you receive an unconditional, firm offer from the university and you have declared your disability on your application form, you will automatically receive an email with a weblink to complete our Disability Pre arrival Questionnaire. This will help us get a better understanding of your support needs.
Here’s how the Disability Service can assist you before you even arrive:
- Help you apply for Disabled Student Allowance (DSA) if you’re a UK student. 🏦
- Identify the support, equipment, or technology that could make your university experience smoother. 🖥️📖
- Arrange assessments with Educational Psychologists or Higher Education Access Centres if needed.
- Work with academic staff to provide accessible coursework and alternative formats.
- Organise exam adjustments, such as extra time ⏳ or using a computer. 💻
- Liaise with Student Accommodation Services 🏠 to help secure a room that meets your needs.
- Signpost you to organisations that provide personal care or independent living assistance, if required.
- Ensure you can physically access teaching spaces for your courses. 🚶♂️
Taking action early means that you will have a smoother transition to university life ✅
Do I Need to Provide Evidence of My Disability?
Yes! You’ll need to provide evidence from a relevant health care professional, such as a GP, consultant, speech therapist, educational psychologist, audiologist, or occupational therapist. If you do not have this, you can share a copy of your previous learning and exam support arrangements from your School, college or previous university. If you’re unsure about what evidence is required, just email the Disability Service at [email protected]. 📧
What Happens After I Submit My Evidence?
Support arrangements don’t happen automatically. You’ll need to discuss your needs with the Disability Service. This can be via email, video call, telephone or an in-person appointment. Some arrangements—like orientation support or applying for Disabled Student’s Allowance (DSA)—take time, so it’s good to get organised and start thinking about this sooner rather than later!
If you have completed the Pre-Arrival Questionnaire and submitted your medical evidence, please wait for the Disability Service to contact you. Over the summer, the advisers will review this information and inform you of your next steps.⏳
Next Steps: You’ve Arrived in St Andrews!
You’ve got your exam results, secured your accommodation, and moved in—what now? 🏡🎒
- If you completed the Disability Pre arrival Questionnaire and shared your supporting evidence, check your emails to see if you have confirmation of your support plan arrangements.
- If not, contact the Disability Service by emailing [email protected] or calling +44 (0)1334 462020.
- If you have multiple questions that you’d like to discuss with an adviser, you can request an appointment (this can be via phone, video call or face to face)
- Once your support plan is in place it is available to relevant School Disability Coordinators and Module Coordinators.
- If you haven’t applied for a Disabled Student Allowance yet (and are eligible), the Disability Advisers can guide you through the process.
Your Disability Support Checklist
Before you start university, make sure you:
✅ Contact the Disability Service if you have questions about the available support.
✅ Arrange a visit or attend a virtual event. 🏛️ ✅ Discuss accommodation needs with Student Accommodation Services. 🏠 ✅ Organise and submit appropriate evidence. 📄 ✅ Apply for Disabled Student Allowance (if eligible). 🏦 ✅ Watch the Entrant Essentials webinar series for extra guidance on transitioning to university life. 🎥
Need to get in touch? The Disability Service is here to help:
📧 Email: [email protected]
📞 Phone: +44 (0)1334 462020
Planning ahead will make your transition to university so much smoother. Reach out early, get your support in place, and focus on enjoying your time at St Andrews! 🎓😊