Disabled Students' Allowance
Find out more about the Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA) and how it can benefit students with a disability, who are studying in higher education.
What is the DSA?
The Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) is a non-means tested grant for students studying in higher education who have a disability as defined by the Equality Act (2010).
Watch What are Disabled Students' Allowances on YouTube.
How can the DSA help me?
The DSA can provide help with the following costs where your disability requires extra support:
- Specialist equipment
- Non-medical helpers
- Extra travel because of your disability
- Other costs of studying as a result of your disability.
Eligibility
Find out what evidence is required for your DSA application. You are eligible to apply for DSA funding once you have a firm offer of a place on an undergraduate or postgraduate course. You must also qualify for student finance from Student Finance England (you are still eligible for DSA if you qualify for student finance but do not take it).
Watch What's a Study Needs Assessment? on YouTube.
Physical, long-term health or mental health conditions
You will need to provide a letter from your GP or other relevant qualified specialist stating your diagnosis and confirming that it has a substantial and long-term adverse effect on your day-to-day activities.
Specific learning differences
You will need to provide a post-16 diagnostic report from either a registered psychologist or a qualified specialist teacher holding a SpLD Assessment Practicing Certificate.
Autistic spectrum conditions
You will need to provide a letter from your GP or other relevant qualified specialist stating your diagnosis and confirming that it has a substantial and long-term adverse effect on your day-to-day activities or Statement of Special Educational Needs issued by a Local Authority.
How to apply
Find out how to apply for a DSA.
Watch Applying for a Disabled Students' Allowance on YouTube.