Disabilities and health conditions Rates of disability and health conditions rose sharply among the applicant population between 2017 and 2021. They have remained largely stable over the last three years, but there are rises in the proportion of applicants with ADHD, physical or mobility impairments and sensory impairments. Improved awareness and diagnosis may be driving the higher incidence of ADHD, but the rise in physical and sensory impairments within the applicant population may be linked to improved support for disabled students in schools, colleges and universities. 20% 15% 10% 5% 0% Mental health condition Autism spectrum condition A long standing illness or health condition Physical impairment or mobility issues Sensory impairment Prefer not to say Specific learning difficulties ADD/ADHD* 2017 2021 2022 2023 2024 Figure 12: Incidence of self-reported disability among the applicant population 2017-2024 2019 Base = UK domiciled applicants 2024 data = 1724; 2019 = 2002 *Prior to 2022, ADD/ADHD was included in the Specific learning difficulties category Unite Students | Applicant Index Report 25 INTRODUCTION THEMATIC ANALYSIS WELLBEING METHODOLOGY TOPICAL ISSUES BACK TO THEMES