DARE (Disability Access Route to Education)
Last checked August 2026
What it is
A college admissions scheme, not a payment. If you are eligible you compete for places at REDUCED POINTS, so 350 points could win you a course that asks for 360. You must still meet the minimum and any course-specific requirements. Open to school leavers under 23 on 1 January, and the list of conditions is wider than people expect: dyslexia and significant literacy difficulties, dyscalculia, ADD and ADHD, autism including Asperger's, dyspraxia, mental health conditions, neurological conditions, physical disability, deaf or hearing impaired, blind or vision impaired, speech and language disorders, and significant ongoing illness. You apply through the CAO by 5pm on 1 February, then Section A of the Supplementary Information Form by 1 March and Sections B and C by post by 10 March. Late CAO applications are NOT considered for DARE, so the February date is the one that matters. You are told the outcome on 23 June, and you can apply to DARE and HEAR together.
How to apply
Applications go through CAO / Access College. The official page has the full eligibility rules and the application itself.
Go to the official page →Checked against the official source on 19 August 2026. Always confirm the details on the official page before applying.
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