What is Disabled Student Allowance

Evidence suggests a discrepancy in the proportion of autistic individuals continuing to higher education (HE) compared to the general population. Similarly, qualitative analyses provide insight into difficulties experienced by autistic students in HE. Universities have now returned to face-to-face teaching following COVID-19. However, no research has explored COVID-19 anxiety in autistic students, nor their thoughts about returning to face-to-face teaching. Therefore, a thorough literature review will be conducted, exploring the experiences of autistic students within HE. Novel results will be reported. Disabled university students reported significantly more COVID-19 anxiety and uncertainty intolerance than non-disabled students. Similarly, autistic students reported significantly more uncertainty intolerance. Implications of this are discussed. Findings from a follow-up case study suggest a need for improved disability awareness on campus, sensory accommodations, and appropriate mental health support. Support strategies and future research directions are suggested.