Finding the university for you

Finding the right fit for your future 

With an incredible variety of universities and courses available, you have a wealth of exciting paths to explore. You have likely already started thinking about your future goals and discussing options with your family, friends, or mentors. For students managing a long-term mental health condition, finding a supportive environment is just as essential as the academic programme. 

Here are some key considerations to help you choose a university where you can truly thrive.

Who should I ask?

Your family and friends will often be able to help you think through what might be important to you, although sometimes they might be the worst people to ask! If you feel like you need some more independent input, how about a teacher or careers adviser? A counsellor may be able to help you in some cases.

The Student Room is the UK's largest online community for school, college and uni students. It has many forums where you can ask specific questions but please remember, responses may be opinion and not fact!

University websites do vary, and of course, are designed to sell their courses to you. Although they must not promise you things that they can't provide, they may not answer all of your questions.

Before you get to university, you should be able to access advice from Admissions staff and Student Services staff (if you have a long term mental health condition). We'd recommend that you ask both Admissions and Student Services staff to get a rounded view. Student Services staff will often come from an advice background, and will be able to help you understand your options and rights as a student. They will also be able to signpost you to someone else if needed. 

What should I ask about?

Please see the sub-menus below to explore these in more detail. These are designed to get you thinking, rather than being prescriptive. Our main message is: don't assume. 

More information

Disability Rights UK has a guide 'Into Higher Education' updated in 2026 which includes students' stories and also gives some more suggestions about questions to ask. This guide might be especially useful if you have multiple impairments. 

Disabled Students UK is a community research organisation run by current and former disabled students. Their resources include Your rights and a university comparison tool based on data from the Annual Disabled Student Survey.