From applications to adaptations: A guide for students with ADHD navigating university

Navigating the university as a student with Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD) may feel overwhelming.  

ADHD is currently categorised as a mental health disability, so it is recognised by law and gives you certain rights to seek more support.  

The university application process itself can also be a bit “one size fits all”, so we have gathered some tips and tricks to help you make the process work for you.  

Applying to university with ADHD

It has been said that ADHD is an under supported condition at many universities. This may be because only some aspects of ADHD such as dyslexia or dyspraxia are supported. 

If you think you have ADHD or have been diagnosed with the condition, follow the steps below to help you create a tailored list of unis to apply to that are switched on to your needs. 

1. 1. Make a list of the universities and explore their disability webpage to see if ADHD is listed as a condition. Uniselect can help – just answer a few simple questions about what you want from uni and you’ll get a tailored shortlist.

2. 2. Contact the disability support service by email or phone to find out about the university’s learning styles and resources for students with ADHD.
3. 3. Ask if anyone in the support services has had specific ADHD training and if there is a support group for students with ADHD.  

Creating a personalised application timeline: 

The application process has several steps, each with a deadline.  

Our guide to university and UCAS deadlines lists this information in both written and visual form.  

Some of the dates might not be relevant to you so use this page to create your own roadmap and break down the application process into manageable steps.  

You could use time management tools and techniques to stay organised and focussed.  

Universities with accessible support services 

Each university will have different provisions but below is a list of resources you can use for support and guidance: 

• #AttentionUK is a campaign to destigmatise and raise awareness of ADHD. It offers advice on university support for students in the UK and has carried out research into ADHD provision at some London Universities.  
•  The Student Room has a forum for disabled students offering help and support on issues that affect them. This is a good place to find out what life is really like at various universities for students with ADHD. 
• UCL (University College London), offers guidance in supporting neurodiversity in education including some teaching toolkits. This might be worth looking at to help educate others about the sort of support that could and should be available. 

Getting organised

Once you have your personalised timeline, use it to set some realistic goals.  

Focus on achieving one goal at a time. This should help you feel motivated to achieve each goal and prevent you feeling overwhelmed.  

There are various apps available that help with things like managing time and money, staying organised and being more focused. Including: 

• RescueTime 
• Asana 
• Todoist 
• OFFTIME  
• Headspace 

Breaking down large tasks 

Instead of trying to do everything in one go break things down into smaller projects. Once you have your projects, break these into more manageable tasks. 

Contacting universities to ask them about their ADHD policy is one project: 

1. 1. Create a list of telephone numbers to call
2. 2. Write down the questions you want to ask
3. 3. Call each university in turn and note their responses

Completing the application form is another task. Don’t try to complete the entire application in one go. Leave yourself enough time so you can work on one section at a time and take frequent breaks.  

1. 1. Note each step of the application and what needs to be done
2. 2. Break each section into a set of smaller tasks
3. 3. Tick off each section as you go

Getting support 

It might help you to have someone to check in with to keep you on track and keep an eye on your progress. You could share your list of tasks with them to help you complete them on time. This could be a family member, friend, or a teacher.  

Communicating with university admissions offices

Many people worry about admitting any differences that might be perceived in a negative light. However, universities are legally required to provide reasonable accommodations for people with ADHD. The type of support you might need will be unique to you but should be designed to help you to succeed academically.  

Asking for support and resources shows your resilience and determination. ADHD related experiences can also be presented as strengths. For example, you could highlight how your high energy levels or hyperfocus have helped you stay motivated and engaged in your studies.  

Requesting support 

It's best to communicate with university admissions about ADHD related adaptations and support as early as possible and preferably before the start of the academic year. This will give the university time to put the support in place from the start.  

The university’s disability support team or student service team is the best place to start. They may ask you to supply evidence of your ADHD diagnosis so check what documentation they need. If you don’t yet have a diagnosis, don’t be put off, there may be ways to get this, and the support team should be able to help.  

You should also speak to the university admissions team as you may be eligible for Disabled Students’ Allowance.  

When you apply, you'll usually need proof of your disability. This might take the form of a written diagnostic report from a suitable professional like an educational psychologist or specialist teacher. Our step-by-step guide on how to access this support will give you more information.  

Starting university

Most people find the transition to university life a little bumpy at times so be kind to yourself.  

The first year is often about finding your feet and becoming more self-aware as well as learning. Work out how you study best. Are you more productive on your own or with friends? Lots of people with ADHD find study groups or study buddies helpful to keep them on track.  

If you start to feel stressed or overwhelmed reach out to your lecturers and support services so they can help.