What Happens to an EHCP When a Young Person Goes to University?

Parents and young people sometimes contact us with questions about what happens if a young person with an Education, Health and Care Plan receives an offer from a university. There can be uncertainty about whether the EHCP continues and what support will be available once higher education begins.

In a recent video on our Education Law TikTok channel, Beverley Watkins, Managing Partner at Watkins Solicitors, explains what happens to an EHCP when a young person starts university.

Does an EHCP continue at university?

Once a young person begins a university course, their EHCP will cease. This means the local authority no longer has a legal duty to secure the educational provision set out in the EHCP.

EHCPs apply to education and training up to, but not including, higher education. University study falls outside the EHCP framework.

What support is available instead?

Although the EHCP ends, this does not mean support stops altogether. There are alternative sources of funding and support available to students in higher education.

These may include:

• Disabled Students’ Allowance
• University disability support services
• Specialist learning support
• Bursaries or hardship funds
• Other funding streams, depending on the institution

Each university has its own disability support team, and it is important for the young person to contact the university directly to understand what adjustments and funding may be available.

Planning ahead

If a young person with an EHCP is considering university, it is sensible to start discussions early. Understanding how support will transition from the EHCP system to higher education funding can help avoid gaps in provision.

Universities have duties under equality legislation to make reasonable adjustments for disabled students, but the structure of support is different from that provided under an EHCP.

Watch the video and get support

The full video, featuring Beverley Watkins answering this question, is available on our Education Law TikTok channel.

If you would like advice about post-19 provision, transitioning from an EHCP to university, or understanding your options, our Education Law team is here to help.

You can contact us by emailing education@watkinssolicitors.co.uk or calling 0117 939 0350 to discuss your situation and next steps.