Do not buy any equipment until you’ve been assessed. You will not be reimbursed for it.
Quick facts
- Up to
- £27,783 a year
- Means-tested?
- No
- Repaid?
- No
- New computer
- You pay the first £200
- Who
- Undergraduates and postgraduates
What it pays for
Undergraduate and postgraduate students can get up to £27,783 per year for support.
You can get help with the costs of:
- specialist equipment, for example a computer if you need one because of your disability
- non-medical helpers, for example a British Sign Language (BSL) interpreter or specialist note taker
- taxi travel to and from your course or placement, only if your disability stops you from using public transport
- other disability-related study support, for example having to print additional copies of documents for proof-reading
DSA does not cover disability-related costs you’d have if you were not attending a course, or costs that any student might have.
A new computer
When buying a new computer, you’ll need to pay the first £200.
Your needs assessment
Your needs assessment is an informal meeting to determine what support you can get for your studies - it’s not a test. It can be in-person or remote.
A decision cannot be made on your DSA application until you’ve had your assessment.
Not based on income
The type of support and how much you get depends on your individual needs - not your household income.
This can be on its own or in addition to any student finance you get.
Common questions
How much is Disabled Students' Allowance?
Up to £27,783 a year for undergraduate and postgraduate students.
Is DSA means-tested?
No. It depends on your individual needs, not your household income.
Do I pay DSA back?
No. You do not need to pay back DSA.
Does it cover dyslexia?
Yes. Specific learning difficulties such as dyslexia can qualify.