What you need to know about the Disabled Students’ Allowance

Getting ready to begin your further education studies? This is an exciting time, but it might be a little stressful too. Heading off to university when you have a disability requires plenty of planning and preparation to ensure your individual needs are met – by Katherine Allen

 
One of the most important things to have in place prior to starting your course is your university funding. Alongside a student loan, disabled students are usually eligible for Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA). If you’re thinking about applying, there are a few things you’ll need to know – let’s take a look.
 

Who’s eligible

 
What constitutes a disability can be hard to define. To be as clear-cut as possible, those eligible for DSA generally need to have a disability that’s recognised by the 2010 Equality Act. This covers a range of disabilities including mental health conditions, physical disabilities, autism and long-term illnesses, among others.

Besides this, you’ll need to reside in the UK, be taking a course that’s at least a year in length, and already qualify for a separate Student Finance loan.
 

The application process

 
You can apply for DSA through your student finance account. You’ll need to provide lots of evidence to back up your application. This will vary depending on your disability, but you’ll usually need to have someone specialising in your condition (for example, a doctor or mental health professional) complete a Disability Evidence Form or write a letter on your behalf.

Next, you’ll need to attend a study needs assessment, whereby an assessor will evaluate the amount of support you’re likely to need. It’s a good idea to prepare for this assessment so that you don’t forget to report any of your requirements to the assessor.
 

How much you could get

 
Award amounts will vary year to year, and will depend on your unique situation as well as your location. Currently, the maximum amount you could receive in England is £26,291, in Wales is £33,146, in Northern Ireland is £25,000 and in Scotland is £27,405 – in Scotland, this payment is spread across multiple categories, so you’ll be awarded separate amounts that may or may not add up to this figure.

The money you’re given can be used to pay for university essentials that are required because of your disability. For example, special equipment or non-medical assistance, such

as a note taker or or sign language interpreter. It won’t cover costs related to your disability that you would still have if you weren’t studying.
 

Other help you can get

 
Not everybody will be eligible for DSA. But, if you feel that Student Finance were wrong in their decision to reject your application, you can take steps to appeal their decision.

Don’t forget that there is other help available for students with disabilities. You may be able to get a bursary, a hardship fund, or other benefits, such as a Personal Independence Payment or Disability Living Allowance. You can also reach out to charities that may be able to offer you a grant – you can take each of these actions whether or not you’re accepted for DSA.
 

Reach out additional advice

 
Starting university when you have a disability can feel daunting, particularly as there’s so much to arrange. However, it’s important to remember that there’s lots of support out there to help make the process easier. Reach out to your university if you feel you need additional support with any aspect of university life, or get in touch with Student Finance if you need more information about DSA.

Disabled Students’ Allowance can be a huge help for people with disabilities who have additional costs at university. DSA doesn’t usually need to be paid back (you may need to pay it back if you leave your course early) so it’s always worth taking the step to apply – any amount of financial aid you’re entitled to is likely to make the transition to university a much more enjoyable, stress-free experience.
 
Author name: Katherine Allen
 
Katherine is a student advisor who works closely with undergraduate learners. She supports new starters to navigate the transition to university, and aims to equip them with all the tools they need to succeed on their courses.