Disabled Student Allowance

Disabled Student Allowance (DSA) is a government funding scheme designed to pay for extra costs a student has at university as a result of the effects of their disability, medical condition, Specific Learning Difference (SpLD) or mental health condition on their studies. 

DSA funding is allocated to the individual student and not the university. It is the student’s responsibility to ensure they engage fully in the process of applying for DSAs. The allowance can help pay for study related support, including specialist equipment and human support to help the student overcome the effects of their disability on their studies.

They will not pay for:

• Costs a student would have whether or not they were at university
• Non-disability related costs incurred by all students on a particular course

DSAs are not:

• A loan so you will not have to repay them when you have graduated
• Classed as income so do not affect state benefits

DSAs are available to UK students who meet criteria defined by the government. 

How to apply for a DSA

The amount of DSA available and the method of application varies depending on the type of course you are studying.

How to apply for a DSA|

You must send written evidence of your disability from your funding provider when you apply for a DSA. This is to enable your funding provider to determine that you require additional support at university because of the effects of your disability, medical condition or SpLD. 

Proof of your disability or medical condition

In most cases, you will need to provide a letter from a medical professional which states your disability or medical condition and details how this affects you. 

Proof of SpLD

There are requirements regarding diagnostic reports which can be accepted by your funding provider for DSA applications.

If you are an applicant, it is particularly important that you check the requirements so you can start your DSA application before you go to university. 

There are a number of guides to help you with your application:

Proof of your Specific Learning Difference (including dyslexia|)

What is a needs assessment?|  

What happens after you have had your needs assessment appointment|

After you have received the final version of your needs assessment report|.

Once your DSA is approved

You must keep all documents and correspondence relating to your DSA application, as it is likely that you will need to use the support in every year of your course.

Read the Disability Advice and Support DSA approval|.