Disabled Students' Allowances (DSA) - information for applicants and students
What is DSA?
Disabled Students' Allowances (DSA) is a non-means tested grant available to disabled students who are applying for, or are attending, a course of Higher Education.
The allowance covers any additional study-related costs that students will incur because a disability, ongoing medical condition, mental health condition or specific learning difficulty, e.g. dyslexia. Extra costs may include specialist equipment, a non-medical helper, travel and other costs.
Application forms for Disabled Students' Allowances can be found on the DirectGov website.
Detailed guidance notes, including criteria for eligibility, are also available there.
There are two ways to apply for DSAs:
- If you're also applying for a student finance package, state on the main application form that you want to apply for DSAs and then complete the 'short' version of the DSA1 form
- If you're applying for DSAs financial support only, or you are taking a part time course, or if you are a Postgraduate Applicant you will need to complete the longer version of the application form.
Apply as early as possible; don't wait until you've been offered a place at university. You need to give proof of your disability or health condition. This may be a letter from your Doctor or specialist.
If you gave a specific learning difficulty such as dyslexia, you'll need to provide a 'diagnostic assessment' from a psychologist or suitable qualified specialist teacher. If you had a diagnostic assessment when you were under age 16, it may need updating.
What happens after I have applied for DSA?
Once you have applied for DSA and your eligibility is confirmed you will be asked by your funding body to attend a needs assessment. This appointment can be carried out before the start of your course. A needs assessment must be carried out by an accredited assessment centre. Following that assessment, a report will produced that outlines recommendations for appropriate adjustments.
Further information on DSA
For the latest information on the above allowance please visit DirectGov or contact us
