What is the Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA)?

The DSA is funding available in the UK, which helps pay for additional study costs you might incur due to a disability.

There is no age limit for who can get DSA, and it doesn't depend on household income – what you can get depends on your needs. You don't have to pay it back.

Eligibility for the Disabled Students' Allowance

Students can apply for the Disabled Students' Allowance if they have a disability or condition that impacts their ability to study, for example:

• Mental Health conditions such as depression or anxiety
• Physical disabilities such as partially sighted or mobility issues
• Long-term health conditions, such as cancer or heart disease
• Learning difficulty, including ADHD or Dyslexia

Eligible students must also be:

• Must be an undergraduate student in the UK
• Qualify for student finance from Student Finance England
• Be studying on a full-time or part-time program in the UK that lasts at least one year
• There is no age limit for who can get DSA.

Students won't be eligible for the Disabled Students Allowance if they're:

• If you are an EU student
• Suitable for an NHS Disabled Students Allowance (a separate initiative)
• Only eligible to get a Tuition Fee Loan
• Receiving support from another funding source, such as your university or a social work bursary,

Do I need to pay back the Disabled Students' Allowance funding?

The DSA funding is not a loan or considered an income when working out whether you are entitled to benefits or Tax Credits. You don't have to pay it back.

How much will I receive through my Disabled Students Allowance?

Students' funding through the DSA depends on their individual needs; it is not impacted by your income or your parents or partner's income.

The Disabled Students' Allowance only covers disability-related costs arising from your studies. The funding does not cover the costs a student without a disability might encounter during their studies.

How to apply for Disabled Students' Allowance funding?

Full-time students applying for other student finance, such as a Tuition Fee Loan, can apply for a DSA from the same online account once you've submitted your student finance application.

If you are not applying for any other student finance type, you must complete the DSA1 form. The application process can take up to 14 weeks, so it's wise to apply as early as possible to ensure you have everything you need for the start of your undergraduate program.

What is a study needs assessment?

Student Finance England might ask students eligible for a DSA to arrange a study needs assessment to establish what equipment and support you need for your program.

A study needs assessment is an informal meeting with a Needs Assessor to discuss what equipment and support will help you succeed in your studies.

A study needs assessment differs from a diagnostic evaluation used as evidence of dyslexia. Even if you've had a diagnostic assessment, you must also have a needs assessment.

You only need to book a needs assessment if requested by Student England Finance.

What will happen during my study needs assessment?

You will need to book an assessment at your nearest assessment center.

Your appointment should take place within 15 working days

Student Finance England typically receives your final report within ten working days.

Students can review their study assessment report before sending it to Student Finance England.

We hope we have answered your questions on the Disabled Student Allowance available to students with disabilities in the UK.