What is the Disabled Students' Allowance?

This short video explains what the Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA) is, what support students can get and how they can apply. Contents of this Video 0:00:00 - Introduction 0:35:02 - Step 1 - Applying for DSA 1:01:24 - Step 2 - DSA Assessment 1:25:21 - Step 3 - DSA Support granted Video transcript: For students with disabilities, getting the right type of support makes a lifetime of difference. Students can get support at university through the Disabled Students’ Allowance. The DSA helps by covering the study-related costs students have because of a disability. This includes mental health challenges, specific learning needs, and long term health conditions. Here’s how it works: Step one Students apply for the DSA online through student finance. Before getting started, they’ll need evidence of their condition. The type of support and how much a student gets is based on their individual need. And doesn’t need to be repaid. This includes funding for specialist equipment and assistive technology. As well as travel costs and non-medical helpers. Step two Students will be invited to visit a DSA Assessment Centre to find out what support and equipment they need. This is an informal chat and there are no right or wrong answers. This is a chance for the student to share what they find challenging. Together, the student and the assessor will agree what support the student needs to reach their full potential. And finally, step three Students will find out what support the DSA will pay for based on their assessment. From there, they’ll get all the help they need to set up and learn how to use their new equipment. Helping to give students increased confidence, productivity and success through their course.