Higher education can be challenging, but for students with a disability, long-term health condition, mental health condition, or specific learning difficulty (like dyslexia), the **Disabled Students Allowance (DSA)** provides essential financial and practical support.
What Does DSA Cover?
Unlike a student loan, DSA is a grant that does not have to be paid back. It is designed to cover the extra costs you have because of your disability, such as:
- Specialist Equipment: Laptops with assistive software (e.g., Dragon Dictation, Mind-Mapping tools).
- Non-Medical Helpers: Note-takers, sign language interpreters, or specialist study skills tutors.
- Travel: Help with the extra costs of travel to and from university caused by your disability.
- General Allowance: Other costs like braille paper or photocopying.
Eligibility
To be eligible for DSA, you must:
- Be an undergraduate or postgraduate student (including Open University).
- Have a condition that affects your ability to study.
- Be eligible for student finance from a UK funding body (e.g., Student Finance England).
The Application Journey
- Apply: Apply alongside your main student finance application.
- Evidence: Provide a "Needs Assessment" report or a letter from your GP/specialist.
- Needs Assessment: If eligible, you will attend a free "Study Needs Assessment" where an expert identifies the specific tools that will help you.
- Approval: You receive an entitlement letter (DSA2) detailing exactly what support has been approved.
- Order: Buy approved equipment and claim costs back, or contact approved suppliers.
Combining DSA with PIP
Many students don't realize they can claim BOTH. DSA covers your study needs, while PIP covers your daily life and mobility. Our tools can help you draft your PIP application to complement your DSA evidence.
Check Your PIP EligibilityDSA FAQs
Q: Does my parents' income affect DSA?
A: No. DSA is not means-tested and is entirely based on your individual needs, regardless of household income.
Q: Can I get DSA for a mental health condition?
A: Yes. Anxiety, depression, and other long-term mental health conditions are valid grounds for DSA support if they impact your studies.
Q: Can I claim DSA if I am an apprentice?
A: No, DSA is for higher education students. However, apprentices can access support through the **Access to Work** scheme.
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Benefit Experts Editorial Team
Benefit Experts Team – Independent UK benefits guidance. We provide independent, authoritative guidance to help UK citizens navigate the complex benefits system with confidence.