Overview

We offer a broad range of support for autistic students, helping with your transition to university, and making sure you're supported throughout your time at Kent.
Group of people sitting in circle in conversation

Before you start university, we can provide induction into university life via orientation programmes. Once you have applied, you can arrange an initial meeting with a Disability Adviser to register for support. This can happen over the summer before you arrive, or after you enrol.

The Disability Adviser will assist you to plan and organise your support, and will provide links to mental health specialist teams. We can be contacted at any stage in your academic progress.

Arranging support

To access autism support, you need to register with Student Support and Wellbeing. You'll be asked to provide written evidence of your diagnosis. You can arrange an appointment to meet an SSW Adviser - either by emailing KentSSW@kent.ac.uk, caling 01227 823158, or coming into the Student Support and Wellbeing reception in Keynes College H block.

If you course is based at Medway, email MedwaySSW@kent.ac.uk, call 01634 888474 or come into the Student Support and Wellbeing reception in the Gillingham Building, G0-05.


Man with grey hair smiling.

I meet regularly with students 1:1 to develop strategies to manage the impact of neurodivergence on academic study.

Stephen, Mentor

Depending on your circumstances, your Disability Adviser can:

  • Create in Inclusive Learning Plan (ILP) to inform and advise your academic Division of your support requirements.
  • Help you apply for the Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA).
  • Help with accommodation requests
    • Students with autistic spectrum conditions may be able to remain in campus accommodation for the duration of their course.
    • If you're thinking of applying to stay on campus, please make sure you look out for the key dates on the accommodation webpages.
  • Assess your support needs and possibly refer you for other services including dyslexia, dyspraxia and ADHD services, or refer for mental health support.
  • Provide links with the Careers and Employability Service.
  • Provide information for attending peer support network groups.
  • Organise Specialist Mentor appointments. Concerns such anxiety about relationships, independent living, social interaction when living on campus, or prioritising study and coursework can be talked over.

Social support groups

The neurodivergent community at the University of Kent is proactive and we welcome new ideas and activities. To make suggestions, please contact AutismSupport@kent.ac.uk

The 'University of Kent Autistics' group (UoKA) is a student-led group who meet for two hours a week. 'So You're Autistic?' is an eight week support programme teaching those with a diagnosis, awaiting a diagnosis, or who think they might be autistic, how to be their authentic autistic self, and to understand what being autistic means for you.

Look at our Student Support and Wellbeing Events Calendar for peer support group meetings coming up.

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