The NDIS, university and TAFE
The line between NDIS disability supports and what universities and TAFE must provide — accessibility services, adjustments and study supports.
Further study can be a real stepping stone toward the life you want, and study goals can sit in your NDIS plan. But the NDIS and your education provider each have their own responsibilities. This guide draws that line clearly — what universities and TAFE must provide, what the NDIS can fund, and how to get set up before you start.
Study can be part of your NDIS journey
What universities and TAFE must provide
What the NDIS can fund
Drawing the line with an example
Supports that help you stay the course
Getting set up before you start
Frequently asked questions
Does the NDIS pay my course fees?
No. Tuition, course materials and the education itself aren't NDIS supports. The NDIS funds disability supports around your study, like personal care or transport, not the cost of the course.
Who arranges exam adjustments?
Your university or TAFE. Education providers are responsible for reasonable adjustments like extra time, note-takers or accessible materials. Register with their disability or accessibility service to set these up.
Can I get a support worker on campus?
Possibly, if support with personal care or getting around is in your plan. That's a disability support, separate from the learning adjustments the campus provides. Confirm with your planner.
Should I tell my university about my disability?
To get adjustments, you'll usually need to register with their accessibility service and share relevant information. What you disclose beyond that is otherwise your choice.
Will studying affect my NDIS plan?
Studying itself doesn't reduce your plan, because your supports are based on your disability needs. If study changes what support you need, raise that at your next planning conversation.