What is DSA Support?

nyomirosa
Jul 17, 2023
2 min read

Updated: 3 days ago

What is DSA?

DSA is extra funding for higher-education students to cover disability-related study costs. It’s not a loan, and you usually don’t pay it back. It’s designed to remove barriers that you may experience in Further or Higher Education.

Who can get DSA?

You may be eligible if you:

Study on a university, college, Open University, or distance-learning course
Have a disability, long-term illness, mental health condition, or specific learning difference (e.g., dyslexia, ADHD, autism)
Your condition affects your ability to study in some way

DSA doesn’t depend on household income — it’s based on your needs.

What can DSA pay for?

DSA is split into funding areas like:

Specialist equipment Example: laptop, assistive software, noise-cancelling headphones, ergonomic chair.
Non-medical helper support Example: study skills mentor, specialist tutor, note-taker, BSL interpreter.
General support costs Example: printing, extra course materials, disability-related admin needs.
Travel costs If your condition makes public transport hard and you need alternatives.

How to apply for DSA (step-by-step)

1. Apply through your student finance body For example, Student Finance England (SFE) Student Finance Wales (SFW)

2. Provide evidence This could be a letter/report from a GP, consultant, or diagnostic assessor.

3. You’ll be invited to a Study Needs Assessment This isn’t a test. It’s a chat about what helps you study best.

4. Get your support plan + approvals You’ll get a report explaining what’s been recommended.

5. Order equipment / start support Funding usually goes directly to suppliers, not into your pocket.

What happens at a Needs Assessment?

Expect a relaxed conversation covering:

Your course style (lectures, labs, placements, reading load)
What’s difficult and why
Tools or support that could reduce stress and improve access

You can bring notes, examples, or someone supportive if that helps.

Quick myths busted

“I don’t identify as disabled.” You may still qualify — DSA covers many conditions and learning differences. UCAS
“I’m scared it’ll affect my grades or record.” DSA is confidential and doesn’t go on your academic record. Disability Rights UK
“It’s only for physical disabilities.”Mental health and neurodivergence are explicitly included. UCAS+1

Final thoughts

DSA exists to make your education fairer and more accessible. If studying feels harder because of your condition, that’s exactly what DSA is for.

If you want help understanding your eligibility, gathering evidence, or preparing for a needs assessment, reach out — support is available and you don’t have to figure it out alone.

Onyx Support provides specialist Non-Medical Help (NMH) support services to individuals who have been diagnosed with a mental health condition or physical disability. Contact us today to learn more! 01604 713103