This information applies to Scotland

You should write to the colleges you wish to apply to for their prospectuses. Read each prospectus carefully to find out what accessibility they have for wheelchair users; all colleges should have accessibility strategies. You should discuss any special needs with the college or university at an early stage.

Students attending further education courses who have special needs can claim through the bursary scheme operated by their college for financial assistance. Such schemes have specific arrangements which recognise the circumstances and the additional support which may be necessary for students who have learning difficulties or disabilities.

Students who incur additional expenditure while attending a higher education course as a result of their special needs, may be eligible for a Disabled Students' Allowance, to help for example, to meet the cost of specialist equipment. Further information is available from the Student Awards Agency for Scotland (www.student-support-saas.gov.uk).

For more information and advice, contact SKILL: National Bureau for Students with Disabilities (www.skill.org.uk). SKILL promotes opportunities for young people and adults with any kind of disability in post 16 education, training and employment across the UK.

There are also disability advisors at Learning Direct Scotland (www.learning-direct-scotland.org.uk) who will be able to offer specialised advice and guidance.

For more information about organisations which can help students with a disability, see Organisations for students with a disability in Education organisations which give information and advice.
For more information about applying to college see Website about further and higher education courses available in Scotland.
For information about financial support for students, see Student Awards Agency guide to support for students in higher education.

Other Frequently asked questions about education:

• Can I get help to go on to college after my Standard Grades?
• Can I educate my child at home?
• I have got a letter for school saying my daughter is going to be excluded. What can I do?
• My child is being bullied at school. What can I do?
• I have just found out that my son is autistic. Can he continue to go to our local primary school?