Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA) process
Below is a step-by-step overview of the DSA process to support and guide you in your DSA application.
The process from application to getting support in place can take around 14 weeks.
To get the maximum benefit, it's best to apply early - ideally before or during your course.
Key steps:
- ÌýApply for DSA: Apply as early as possible
- ÌýAssessment:ÌýOnce your application is processed, you may need an assessment to identify the support you need.
- ÌýReceive support:ÌýAfter approval, set up and arrange the delivery of your support.
You can track your progress using our accessible DSA Checklist PDF, available in the Useful Downloads section of this page.
Note: This process is for home students in England, Wales or Northern Ireland. For support via other funding bodies, such as Research Council or NHS, contact the Student Disability and Inclusion Team.
Step 1:ÌýObtaining supporting evidence
You'll need to provide evidence of each diagnosis. Keep multiple copies for future use.
1a. For disabilites, mental health, or long-term health conditions:
- Evidence must be a report or letter from your doctor, consultant or other medical professional.
- Working diagnoses of conditions such as autism and ADHD may be accepted.
- If you do not have suitable medical evidence, you can ask your GP/medical professional to complete a DSA disability (or medical) evidence form; available fromÌýyour Funding Body's DSA website.
1b. For a Specific Learning difference (SpLD), such as dyslexia:
- This must be a copy of a pre- or post-16 ‘full diagnostic assessment’ report from a practitioner psychologist registered with the Health and Care Professional Council (HCPC)ÌýorÌýsuitably qualified specialist teacher with a current AssessingÌýPractisingÌýCertificate (APC)
Step 2: Application
To apply for the DSA, submit an application to the funding body you would be eligible to claim student finance from.
If you are unsure on where to apply or which form to complete, you can contact the Student Disability and Inclusion TeamÌýfor guidance.
Refer to the relevant funding body below for application details.
Note: the University of Southampton cannot accept responsibility for external websites.
| Funding body | How to apply |
|---|---|
|
Student Finance England, Wales or Northern Ireland
|
With a Student Finance England, Wales or Northern Ireland login:
Start your application online via the Student FinanceÌýonline portal:
Self-financed, part-time undergraduate, or postgraduate students:
Complete a full DSA application form. Visit the relevant website to find the application forms:
|
| Student Awards Agency Scotland (SAAS) |
|
| Higher Education Authority (Republic of Ireland) |
|
|
Postgraduate Research Council
(RC) Funding
|
|
|
NHS DSA
Ìý
|
|
Step 3: Eligibility confirmation (DSA1) and needs assessment
If you are eligible for the DSA, youÌýwillÌýbe sent a letter (referred to as a DSA1) via email, confirmingÌýyour eligibility and instructions for booking your needs assessmentÌý(you doÌýnotÌýneed to pay for this assessment; it is covered by the DSA).
Your needs assessment centre will contact you for arrangements, including completing a pre-assessment questionnaire. You will need to provide your assessor with a copy of the evidence accepted by the DSAÌýand your DSA1 letter prior to your assessment.
Important: Do notÌýpurchase any equipment yet as it will notÌýbe reimbursed.
A needs assessment:
- Typically takes 1 to 2 hours (although it may take longer)
- Can be completed in-person, online (by video appointment), or by phone.
- Is a discussion, notÌýa test,Ìýabout your study-related needs.
You will receive a Needs Assessment Report (NAR) outlining recommendations from your assessor for the DSA.
Step 4: Setting up DSA-approved support
Your Funding Body will review your Needs Assessment Report. You will then be sent aÌýletter (referred to as a DSA2) via email; this letter lists your support entitlement and includes contact details for suppliers.
To access your support and equipment:
- Contact each supplierÌýlisted in your DSA2 letter, providingÌýa copy of the letter.
- The supplier(s) will guide you on the next steps and may request additional information.
If have difficulty arranging your DSA support, contact the Student Disability and Inclusion Team .
For DSA-awarded computers or laptops:
- Most students are required to pay the first £200 towards the cost;Ìýthis is the minimum cost that any student is likely to incur when buying a computer.
- The University of Southampton have agreed to reimburse this contribution if your assessed household income is below £42,600 per year.
| Criteria | Evidence |
|---|---|
|
Student Status: Enrolled
|
You are aÌý‘current student’.
Ìý
For students who have an accepted unconditional offer to study at the University of Southampton, you may be eligible for funding when your course commences.
|
|
Household Income:ÌýLess than £42,600 per year
|
Evidenced by your most recent Student Finance England assessment; supporting documentation not required, but household income must have been shared with the University prior to request. |
| DSAÌýrecipient | Evidenced by your most recent DSA2 entitlement letter, detailing computer recommendations. |
| £200 contribution paid | Evidenced by proof of payment to equipment provider. |