The State of Disabled Students in UK Higher Education – What the Latest Data Tells Us

Rosa Matthews
2 days ago
3 min read

As more universities across the UK strive to become truly inclusive, it’s worth asking: how far have we come when it comes to supporting disabled students? And just as importantly—what’s still missing?

In this post, we break down the most recent stats, highlight key trends, and look at what’s working (and what isn’t) when it comes to making higher education accessible to all.

Disabled Student Numbers Are Rising Fast

There’s been a notable increase in the number of disabled students entering UK universities in recent years:

16.5% of all university students—that’s over 484,000 people—have declared a disability (HESA, 2022/23)
Among home students, that number rises to 19%, nearly double what it was in 2010
At current growth rates, disabled students could make up over a third of home student enrolments by 2033

While learning difficulties like dyslexia are still commonly reported, mental health conditions have seen the most dramatic rise—up 180% since 2014/15, according to the Office for Students. These now account for nearly 27% of all declared disabilities among university applicants.

Financial and Institutional Support: A Mixed Picture

There are key funding and support structures in place—but are they enough?

The Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) offers up to £26,948 in 2024/25, rising to £27,783 in 2025/26 (Gov.uk)
In 2021/22, £58.5 million supported undergraduates via Non-Medical Help services
A further £41 million was distributed in 2023/24 through the disabled student premium

On top of this, the Disabled Student Commitment launched in April 2023. Fifteen universities have signed on, pledging to carry out accessibility audits and collaborate with disabled students on improvement plans.

Academic Outcomes: Some Gains, But Gaps Remain

On paper, the academic attainment gap is narrowing:

82.3% of disabled students achieved a first or 2:1 degree, compared to 83.6% of non-disabled students
The overall attainment gap has dropped to just 1.3 percentage points

However, employment outcomes tell a different story:

Just 53% of disabled graduates secured full-time work after university, compared to 62% of non-disabled graduates (HESA)
Students with autism and other social communication disabilities are especially underrepresented in skilled employment

What’s Student Life Really Like?

Despite some policy wins, many disabled students still face real barriers in day-to-day university life:

Only 36% say their agreed adjustments were fully implemented (Disabled Students Survey)
Less than a third believe their university plans for accessibility in advance
Nearly half report losing marks due to inaccessible assessments
Many face difficulties attending in-person classes due to inaccessible locations or poor staff attitudes

And the process of accessing support can be daunting. Some students choose not to disclose their disability at all, fearing stigma or feeling overwhelmed by the bureaucracy involved.

What’s Working: Real Campus Examples

A handful of universities are leading the way with practical support:

UCL runs orientation programmes specifically for autistic students
The University of Bath offers tailored guidance for staff supporting students with ADHD and dyslexia
Quiet spaces and sensory-friendly environments are becoming more common at many institutions

The Office for Students’ Disability Advisory Panel—launched in 2023—is helping share these positive practices across the sector.

What Needs to Change?

Based on the latest research, here are seven clear actions universities can take to better support disabled students:

Simplify the admin involved in accessing support
Ensure adjustments are applied consistently across departments
Train all staff in disability awareness and inclusive teaching
Make digital materials and platforms more accessible
Offer careers support tailored to the needs of disabled graduates
Expand mental health services to match rising demand
Co-create support services with input from disabled students

With disabled student numbers rising year on year, making these changes isn’t just good practice—it’s vital. And beyond compliance with the Equality Act 2010, it’s a step towards building a fairer, more inclusive learning environment for everyone.

Final Thoughts

Universities across the UK are making progress—but the data shows we’re not there yet. Listening to disabled students, acting on their feedback, and closing the gap between policy and practice will be key in the years to come.