Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA)

Description

Extra, non-repayable funding on top of standard student finance for students with a disability, long-term health condition, mental health condition, or specific learning difficulty (e.g. dyslexia, ADHD) that affects their ability to study. Covers specialist equipment (e.g. a computer needed because of the disability), non-medical helpers (note-takers, British Sign Language interpreters, study-skills tutors), extra travel costs where public transport isn't accessible, and other disability-related study costs — but not costs a student would have anyway regardless of their course. The same DSA name and mechanism operates across all four UK nations, but is administered separately with different rate caps by each nation's student finance body.

Eligibility summary

• Available in: England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland.
• Open to individuals — not restricted to businesses.

Notes

Requires a study needs assessment (usually at an assessment centre) before support is confirmed — most students don't receive the full maximum as cash, since most payments go directly to equipment suppliers or support providers rather than the student. Rates and administering bodies differ by nation: for 2026/27, the England maximum is £27,783/year; Wales offers a single allowance up to £34,671 (excluding travel); Scotland's postgraduate rate is up to £27,405 (full-time undergraduate rate set separately by SAAS); Northern Ireland's most recently published rate is a single allowance up to £25,000 (excluding travel) for 2025/26 — verify the current 2026/27 NI figure before relying on it. Applies to Open University and other distance-learning students too, not just campus-based courses.

Requirement

You must be a full-time, part-time, or postgraduate student (undergraduate or postgraduate) on a recognised course, with a disability, long-term health condition (physical, mental health, or sensory), or specific learning difficulty that meets the Equality Act 2010 definition of disability and affects your ability to study. Not means-tested — household or personal income does not affect eligibility or the amount awarded.