UK Government - Disabled Students' Allowance (DSAs)

Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA)

You will receive up to about EUR 31,950 per year (27,783 GBP) to cover the additional study costs arising from a disability, a mental health condition or a long-term illness. You will never have to repay this money, and it is awarded in addition to any other student finance. It can be used to pay for special aids such as a computer (you pay the first 200 GBP yourself), non-medical support staff such as a British Sign Language interpreter or a note-taker, taxi journeys to your place of study if you are unable to use public transport, and other study costs related to your disability. The amount depends on your needs, which are assessed as part of a means test, and not on your income. The support is provided by Student Finance England, a UK government agency.

Who can apply

• Residence: You live in England.
• Health or disability: You have a disability, a mental health condition, a chronic illness, a sensory or physical impairment, or a specific learning difficulty (e.g. dyslexia, ADHD, anxiety, depression, a hearing or visual impairment, or a condition such as cancer), which affects your ability to study. You will need medical or diagnostic evidence.
• Student finance: You are entitled to both a loan to cover your tuition fees and a loan to cover your living costs in full from Student Finance England.
• Course: You are studying for a bachelor’s or master’s degree lasting at least one year, or are earning at least 30 credits as part of your right to lifelong learning.
• Field of study: All compartments are open.
• When you cannot get it: You are not eligible for this grant if you merely meet the criteria for a loan to cover your tuition fees, or if you are eligible for the separate NHSDSA grant, if you are already receiving equivalent support from your higher education institution or another body, or if you are undertaking further education or a course leading to an academic qualification.

How to apply

You submit your application via your online account with Student Finance England. You can submit the application alongside your application for student finance, or separately using a DSA form. There is no fixed deadline. Once your application has been approved, a service provider will arrange an appointment for an informal needs assessment (in person or online) to determine what support you are eligible for.

How realistic are your chances?

This is a means-tested state benefit, not a competitive scholarship. There is no fixed budget that could run out, nor do you need to compete with others for it. If you live in England, are eligible for the full student loan and can provide evidence of a disability or medical condition that affects your studies, you will receive support. Allow plenty of time: it takes up to 4 weeks to reach a decision, and it can take up to 14 weeks for the support to come into full effect.