At ACU we understand that university studies can be challenging. You’re asked to manage your enrolment, orientation, lectures, tutorials, assignments, exams and navigate your campus, as well as make new friends. We also know that for students on the autism spectrum these challenges can become barriers to accessing higher education.
That’s why we’ve collaborated with autistic students and staff from ACU and other universities to develop Autism at Uni, a collection of initiatives designed to support our autistic students in their studies and help ease their transition into the higher education environment.
We recognise that every person with autism is an individual, with different strengths and challenges. We encourage students to use different aspects of support, depending on their individual interests and needs.
(Uni)Life-Hacker mentor program
A (Uni)Life-Hacker mentor is a student mentor who has been studying at ACU for a while and can assist you with understanding assignments, interacting with teaching staff, finding your way around campus, or whatever you need to get the most out of your university experience.
Learn more on student portal
Social activities
We host regular social activities so you can meet other students with similar interests.
Learn more on student portal
Helpful resources
We provide access to a number of resources on succeeding at university as a student on the spectrum. They include websites, apps, campus maps, study skills resources and books.
Learn more on student portal
Low-sensory room
Our Melbourne campus has a dedicated low-sensory room that autistic students can access during the day. This quiet space has resources to help manage the challenges faced during university attendance including stim toys, weighted blankets and lego.
Autism Inclusion Equity Scholarship - Blacktown
At ACU we are committed to providing inclusion equity to our students and have established the Autism Inclusion Equity Scholarship. This $4,000 scholarship will benefit autistic students commencing studies at our Blacktown Campus.
Learn more and apply
Coming soon
Autism at Uni is an evolving space with lots of exciting initiatives coming in the future, such as sensory maps of our campuses. We look forward to continuing to work with our autistic students and staff to strengthen and expand our support services.
