What is Autism?

Autism is a neurodevelopmental difference that shapes how individuals perceive the world, interact with others, and process information. Autistic students often bring exceptional strengths to university life, including deep focus, originality of thought, pattern recognition, honesty, and a strong sense of justice or fairness. Many thrive in academic settings where their passion for a subject drives meaningful exploration and creativity.

At university, certain environments or expectations may feel challenging—for example:

• Social communication and group work might be overwhelming, especially in unfamiliar or unstructured situations.

• Sensory sensitivities (to light, noise, or crowded spaces) can impact comfort and concentration in lecture halls or social settings.

• Interpreting unwritten rules or vague instructions may require additional clarity, especially in assignment briefs or during transitions.

• Sudden changes to routine, multi-tasking, or busy timetables can make executive functioning tasks like planning and prioritising more difficult.

However, with appropriate understanding and support—including inclusive teaching, flexible learning options, sensory accommodations, and opportunities for authentic expression—autistic students can flourish both academically and personally. Their unique perspectives enrich the university community, and celebrating neurodiversity allows all students to reach their full potential.

National Autism Spectrum Condition Organisations:

As a student at the University you may find this document useful: ASC guide update (Word doc 900k)

‌Useful apps

Molehill Mountain is an app specially designed to help autistic people understand more about their anxiety from autistica.org.uk. The app aims to build your knowledge, confidence and skills to understand and self-manage the causes and symptoms of your anxiety. 

Our Self-Help apps page gives you more information about Apps that all free, and are recommended in better understanding your mental health and wellbeing.  They are also useful in keeping you safe and feeling connected during your time at University.

The links to support agencies, organisations and support apps contained in this website are for general information purposes only. While we endeavour to keep the information and the links up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, expressly or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to these links or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on any website or support app for any purpose.