Applying to university can feel like a big step, but you are not alone - and there’s lots of support to help you through the process.

Many young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) go on to higher education every year, and universities are there to welcome and support you.

This section of the Croydon Local Offer is here to make the process clearer and easier to understand.

Most people apply to university through a system called UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service).

You’ll need to:

1. Choose your courses - Think about what you enjoy, what you’re good at, and what you’d like to do in the future.
   
2. Pick your universities - You can apply to up to 5 places. You might want to visit them or attend open days to see what feels right.
   
3. Complete your UCAS application - This includes your personal details, qualifications, a personal statement, and a reference from your school or college.
   
4. Send your application online - There’s a deadline (usually in January) so try to start early.

For more information please click here

On your UCAS form, you can tick a box to say you have a disability or learning difficulty - this helps the university prepare support for you early on. You can also talk more about your needs in your personal statement.

Universities want to support you and will keep this information private. It won’t affect your chances of getting a place.