What is the Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) and what support could I get?

Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) is support to cover the study-related costs you have because of a mental health problem, long-term illness or any other disability. This can be on its own or in addition to any student finance you get.

The type of support and how much you get depends on your individual needs - not your household income. You do not need to pay back DSA.

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 that you would have if you were not attending a course, or costs that any student might have.