If you're not eligible for DSA, there is other support available. Please contact us through Hallam Help or book a Quick Query appointment to discuss what support you need.
Disabled Students' Allowance
Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) is support to cover the study-related costs you have because of a mental health difficulty, long term illness or any other disability.
This can be on its own or in addition to any student finance you get. The type of support and how much you get depends on your individual needs - not your household income.
DSA can help with the costs of specialist equipment if you need it because of your disability, this may include, but is not limited to:
- a computer
- a digital recorder
- a supportive chair
DSA can help with the costs of assistive software. Depending on your individual needs, this may include, but is not limited to:
- Voice recognition software
- Text to Speech Software
- Mind Mapping software that helps with organising and planning
DSA can also cover the cost of support workers. Depending on your individual needs, this may include, but is not limited to:
- a British Sign Language interpreter
- a specialist note-taker
- a specialist mentor
- a one-to-one study skills tutor
Who can apply for DSA?
- Undergraduate or postgraduate students
- Students who qualify for student finance
- Students studying on a course that lasts at least a year
You cannot get DSA if you’re:
- studying a Degree Apprenticeship (degree or masters-level)
- an EU student who is eligible for fee support only
- an International student
If you're not eligible for DSA, please book a disability adviser appointment to discuss what support you need.
When should I apply for DSA?
It can take up to 14 weeks to get your DSA support in place so you should apply for it as soon as you have applied for a course. If you are due to start your course soon or you are already on your course, you can still apply. Disabled Student Support is able to help you with your DSA application to make it as simple and straightforward as possible.
How do I apply for DSA?
How you apply for Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) depends on your funding body and whether you’re studying full-time or part-time.
Complete a DSA application which you can find on your funding body’s website. Submit the completed form to them with a copy of your disability evidence. Links to the most common funding bodies and information about how to apply for DSA can be found below.
What happens after I have applied?
When your funding body receive your application they will write to you to confirm whether you qualify for DSA or not. Sometimes they may require further information which they will ask you to provide.
Once your eligibility for Disabled Students' Allowance is confirmed, your funding body will ask you to contact an assessment centre to work out what help you need.
This is known as a Study Needs Assessment. Do not book this until your funding body asks you to.
