Disabled Student Allowance (DSA)
What is it?
The Disabled Student Allowance (DSA) is a government-funded support scheme available to students with disabilities or long-term health conditions in the United Kingdom. Its purpose is to provide financial assistance to help disabled students overcome barriers and access higher education on an equal basis with their non-disabled peers.
The DSA provides additional funding to cover the costs of disability-related support and equipment that are not typically provided by educational institutions. The specific support and equipment covered by the DSA can vary depending on the individual needs and requirements of the student. Examples of support that may be covered include:
Specialist equipment: This can include assistive technology devices, such as computers, software, ergonomic furniture, or mobility aids, which are necessary to facilitate learning and participation in education.
Non-medical helpers: The DSA may cover the costs of hiring non-medical helpers, such as note-takers, sign language interpreters, or specialist tutors, to support disabled students in their studies.
Study-related travel expenses: Students may receive financial assistance to cover additional travel costs incurred due to their disability, such as transport to and from campus or travel to attend medical appointments.
Specialist study skills support: Disabled students can receive support from specialists who provide study skills training, assistive technology training, or other forms of academic support tailored to their individual needs.
To access the Disabled Student Allowance, students in the UK must provide evidence of their disability or health condition and apply through their funding body, such as Student Finance England, Student Awards Agency for Scotland, Student Finance Wales, or the Education Authority in Northern Ireland. The specific application process and eligibility criteria may vary depending on the region.