Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA)

What is Disabled Students' Allowance?

DSA is funding that students can get on top of their Student Finance. It can help pay for support that you might need at university as a direct result of a disability, health condition, autistic spectrum condition or specific learning difference (such as dyslexia, dyspraxia or ADHD).

If you are an international student, there is alternative support available. Please contact Accessibility for more information.

DSA does not have to be paid back and it does not depend on your household income. You won't receive money directly; instead you will be provided with a package of support. Disability Rights UK has an factsheet on Applying for Disabled Students' Allowances (DSAs) which gives an excellent overview.

A recent government report found that over half the students who were eligible for DSA didn't apply for it. Some hadn't heard of DSA and others didn't think it would apply to them.

Find out more about DSA below. 

    Is this for me?

    Find out if you are eligible and what support you could get.
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    How do I apply?

    Here's an overview of the process with useful links.
    Flowchart visually summarising the stages of applying for DSA. See text below for more information.

    Guide to using your DSA support

    How you will work with your tutor, mentor or support worker - important information.
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    Other support if you don't get DSA

    If you don't get DSA, there is still plenty of support for you. Find out more...
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