Continued Support at University
- Do you have a Specific Learning Difficulty (such as Dyslexia)?
- Do you have a long term medical condition?
- Do you have a mental health condition?
- Will you need to keep your access arrangements in place such as extra time, word processing, reader / scribe?
- Will you need specialist equipment?
If the answer is yes, you can apply for the Disabled Student Allowances (DSAs) to help cover your extra, study related costs.
How to Apply: Some Guidance from the British Dyslexia Association (BDA)
“Don’t wait until you have a confirmed place or until you start your course to apply for the Disabled Students Allowances, apply now to make sure your support is in place for the start of term.”
It takes, on average, over 10 weeks from applying for DSAs to receiving support. Applying for DSAs early means you can get your support in place before the start of the university term.
Apply from March to make sure your support is in place for the start of term. If you have already applied for student finance, use the slim application form. If you are just applying for DSAs, use the full application form.
To apply you will need to supply evidence of your disability. Photocopies of disability evidence are accepted – you don’t need to send originals.
If you’ve applied for DSAs and been told to book your “needs” assessment appointment, book it now. As soon as you’ve had your assessment, you can get your equipment in place, ready for the start of term.
Providing Evidence of Dyslexia or other Specific Learning Difficulties
You need to provide your full diagnostic report written after you were 16 from a qualified assessor who holds a current practising certificate from their relevant professional body, either a specialist teacher (SpLDAPC) or a chartered educational psychologist (HCPC).
You should contact your university of choice and let them know about you as soon as you have narrowed your choices to two. They may wish to see your assessment. It is always a busy time at the beginning of the first semester, so if you can meet the Learning Support department before you begin, it will be much less stressful for you. They can often help you with form filling and getting to know the ropes of your chosen institution.
Remember – they will not come looking for you, you need to go to them.
Further Information:
DSA – ‘How to Apply’: Full Guidance
Government Student Finance Forms
The Student Room – Student Finance Zone
Disabled Students Allowances Quality Assurance Group (DSA-QAG)
National Careers Service – Advice for Students with a Disability