Who we are
We recognise that disability is experienced in many different ways. At the University of Westminster, we’re committed to creating an inclusive community where everyone feels welcome and diversity is celebrated.
Our friendly team of experienced disability advisers and administrators works alongside you so that you feel supported, included, and able to fully participate in your studies and wider University life.
If you are neurodiverse (for example, if you have dyslexia, ADHD or autism), have a mental health condition, a long term health condition, a sensory impairment, or any other unseen disability such as epilepsy or chronic fatigue, we are here to support you.
How we can help
We’re here for you at every step of your student journey, and you’re always welcome to reach out whenever you need support.
Whether you’re getting ready to join us, studying with us now, or returning after a break, we’ll help you move forward with your learning.
Please complete our online registration form to start the process of arranging your support.
Providing supporting documentation is helpful, such as a letter from your doctor. However, don’t worry if you don’t have this. Please book an appointment to speak with one of our disability advisers.
When you meet with a disability adviser, we’ll talk with you about your disability and any barriers affecting your studies. Together, we’ll explore the adjustments and support that can help minimise or remove these barriers during your time at University.
To ensure your tutors and relevant staff understand how to support you, we share essential information through a Reasonable Adjustment Form (RAF). This document outlines the adjustments you’re entitled to and helps staff put them in place.
If your appointment is taking place on Teams or by phone, please make sure you are in a private and confidential space. If this is not possible, we may not be able to proceed with the appointment.
Reasonable adjustments and support can include, but are not limited to:
- Extra time in exams
- Coursework extensions
- Extended library book loans
- Tailored in-class adjustments
- Support with Disabled Students Allowance (DSA) application process
The University sets deadlines for facilitating exam support for the main assessment periods in January, April/May and the July reassessment period.
To ensure your exam adjustments are in place, please complete the online registration form well before your exam period begins. Registering early gives us enough time to review your needs and put the right support in place.
For the July exam period, the deadline for issuing Reasonable Adjustment Forms is 5 June 2026.
Specific Learning Differences (SpLD) is an umbrella term for a family of related conditions which often occur together. SpLDs affect the way we learn, process and retain information. They are neurological, often run in families, and are not related to intelligence.
We offer an online SpLD/ADHD screener, as well as a separate autism screener.
Before we can refer you for screening or a potential SpLD diagnostic assessment, you will need to meet with a disability adviser. This helps us understand your circumstances and ensure you are directed to the most appropriate support.
Please note that we do not provide autism assessments or clinical ADHD assessments. These are available through the NHS following a referral from your GP, or through privately funded services.
For Home students on eligible courses, much of the support available at University is funded through the Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA). DSA is a non repayable grant that covers disability related support during your studies.
DSA is managed by Student Finance England. You can apply for DSA on its own or alongside your Student Finance application. For full eligibility criteria and application guidance, please visit the DSA website. We strongly recommend applying as early as possible.
To apply for DSA, you will need supporting documentation, such as a doctor’s letter or a diagnostic assessment report. If you do not have this, a relevant professional can complete the DSA Disability Evidence form.
Computer Costs Assistance Scheme
You may be recommended a new computer through DSA – for example, if you do not currently have a computer or if your existing device does not meet the specifications required for specialist software recommended for you.
If this happens, you will be asked to contribute the first £200 towards the cost. The DSA team will provide full details.
You may be eligible for a £200 grant from the University to cover this contribution. If you have questions, please contact the Student Funding team at: [email protected] or book an appointment via Engage.
Miscellaneous Bursary Fund
If you need supporting documentation for your DSA application – such as a doctor’s letter – and your doctor charges a fee, you can apply to reclaim this cost through the Miscellaneous Bursary Fund.
To apply, complete the application form and email it, along with PDF copies of the required documents, to the Student Funding team at: [email protected]. Please ensure each attachment is clearly named so the content is easy to identify.
Temporary conditions
If you have a temporary condition, such as a broken hand or another short-term injury, and need exam adjustments, please download and complete the Request for Individual Exam Arrangements for Temporary Conditions Form.
Once completed, submit the for to the Student Centre, along with any required supporting documentation.
Accessing our buildings
For a comprehensive guide to accessibility across all our buildings, please visit AccessAble.
If you are driving to our central London campuses and are a Blue Badge Holder, we recommend applying for the City of Westminster's White Badge scheme, which provides additional parking benefits.
Useful resources
Our Library Guides include a helpful collection of apps and free software to support reading, writing, organisation, and wellbeing.
All our libraries also have a Disability Support Representative available to provide assistance and guidance.
Confidentiality
We appreciate that the information you share with us is personal and may be sensitive. Please be assured that information about your support needs will only be shared with staff directly involved in implementing your support.
Your information provide will never be shared with other students, and it will not appear on your University transcript or academic references.
Related pages
How to contact us
To get in touch with the team, you can email us at: [email protected] or raise an enquiry through the Student Centre.
We offer appointments from Monday to Friday, available on campus, via Teams and by phone.
If you are a current student, please book an appointment via Engage.