Starting university can feel daunting for anyone, but for students with dyslexia, the thought of managing large amounts of reading, note-taking, deadlines and independent study can bring some extra challenges. The good news is that there is plenty of support available, and with the right strategies in place, dyslexia doesn’t have to hold you back.
Here are seven tips to help you feel more prepared and confident as you start your university journey.
1. Find a system that works for you
Organising your life can definitely help keep stress at bay when starting university. From meal planning and using a calendar to setting reminders on your phone, finding a system that helps you keep track of your commitments can make university life feel much more manageable.
Try planning your week in advance and breaking larger assignments into smaller, achievable tasks. This can help reduce stress and make deadlines feel less overwhelming.
2. Find out what support is available
Research the opportunities and support available through your university, your specific school and your course. It’s worth finding out what is available before you start, rather than waiting until you’re struggling.
You may have access to things such as accessible study spaces, specialised library materials, study skills support and one-to-one support. Universities can also provide reasonable adjustments to help remove some of the barriers you may experience.
Being proactive about finding out what’s available can help you feel more prepared and confident from the beginning.
3. Talk to your tutor or academic mentor
Don’t be afraid to speak to your tutor or academic mentor if you have questions or concerns. They are there to support you and help you get the most out of your university experience.
They may also be able to suggest study strategies or support you weren’t aware of, including individualised study support plans and other adjustments that could make studying more manageable.
You don’t have to wait until you’re struggling to ask for help — getting the right support early can make a real difference.
4. Find your people
From student-led societies and social events to peer support networks, there are plenty of opportunities to meet other students and find your community.
Connecting with other people who understand your experiences can be a great way to reduce stress and build confidence. You may also discover new study techniques and ways of working that suit you.
And remember, university isn’t all about studying! Make time to have fun, try new things and enjoy the experience too.
5. Make the most of assistive technology
Many universities offer assistive technology to support students with dyslexia. This can include text-to-speech tools to reduce reading strain, speech-to-text software to help with writing, and lecture recording or note-taking tools to support memory and organisation.
There are also many apps and software options available to help with reading, writing, planning and studying.
If you are eligible, the Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) may also help with the cost of specialist equipment, software and other support.
It’s worth finding out what technology and funding may be available to you so you can choose the tools that work best for the way you learn.
6. Give yourself time to adjust
It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed when you’re surrounded by change and new beginnings. University is a big transition, so don’t expect yourself to have everything figured out straight away.
While it’s important to do your best to stay on top of your studies, remember to look after yourself too. Make time for sleep, exercise, friends and the things you enjoy. Finding a healthy balance can help you manage stress and make the most of your university experience.
7. Recognise your strengths
Dyslexia can come with challenges, but it doesn’t define what you are capable of.
Many students with dyslexia develop their own ways of approaching problems, thinking creatively and looking at things from different perspectives. Take time to recognise what you’re good at and the approaches that work best for you — these can be just as valuable at university as your academic skills.
Don’t focus only on the things you find difficult. Your individual strengths and ways of thinking can be a real asset.
Starting university with confidence
Starting university is a big step, and it’s completely normal to feel nervous about what lies ahead. But remember, you don’t have to figure everything out on your own.
Make use of the support available, find strategies that work for you and give yourself time to settle into your new routine.
Most importantly, remember that dyslexia is just one part of who you are — it doesn’t determine what you can achieve.
Good luck with your next chapter! 🎓
Find out more about your reading skills
If you’d like to better understand your own reading ability, the QS Reading Test can help you explore your reading fluency and comprehension and see how you compare with current adult reading levels.
The QS Reading Test is currently FREE to take until 12th October 2026.