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Disabled Students’ Allowance

The Disabled Students' Allowance is a government grant for UK disabled students (home status) in higher education. The support is not means-tested. It is really worth applying for, as it can provide:

  • a laptop with assistive technology software
  • ergonomic aids
  • non-medical personal help, e.g. BSL interpreters, electronic note-takers, one-to-one study skills/mentoring support
  • additional travel costs, e.g. taxis where students are not able to use public transport.

Your condition must be long term, which is categorised as 'have been, or expected to be' at least 12 months in duration. You’re likely to be eligible if you have one or more of these:

  • mental health condition
  • physical or sensory condition
  • long-term health issues
  • or neurodivergent condition (e.g. dyslexia, ADHD and ASD).

We strongly encourage you to apply for the DSA early, as it can take 3 months from when you apply to receiving the support.

  • Applying For the Disabled Students’ Allowance

  • Medical Evidence

    • If you have a disability, medical condition, illness or a mental health condition, you will need to provide medical proof, for example, a letter from an appropriate medical professional.
    • We recommend that you ask your medical professional to complete the Disability Evidence Form and draw their attention to the fact that the Department for Education advises that, 'as the student can’t reclaim any charge made for completing this form via DSAs, we ask that it is provided free of charge.' 
    • The letter should include your diagnosis, how long you have had these difficulties and how they affect you daily. It needs to be dated within the last 2 years. 
    • If you have a Specific Learning Difference such as dyslexia, you should provide evidence in the form of a diagnostic assessment report from a psychologist or suitably qualified specialist teacher. 
    • Student Finance England may also accept an Education and Health Care Plan as evidence.

  • Arranging a study needs assessment

    • If your DSA Application is approved you should receive a DSA1 letter confirming this within 6 weeks.
    • We encourage you to book your Needs Assessment as soon as you receive the letter to avoid any delay in accessing support.
    • The Needs Assessment will involve meeting with an assessor who will recommend an individual package of support for you.
    • Where we have arranged interim support for you, e.g. electronic note-takers, study skills tutors or mentors, it is really important that you draw this arrangement to the attention of your study needs assessor. You will have received correspondence from the university setting up this interim support. You should forward this correspondence to the needs assessor. If you fail to do this, it may lead to an interruption in your support.

  • Entitlement Letter

    • Once you have had the Study Needs Assessment you will receive a Student Finance England Entitlement Letter or DSA 2 letter, setting out the recommended support, within 10 working days. It may also propose reasonable adjustments; you should draw these to the attention of the Disability and Mental Health Service either at an appointment or by emailing the team.
    • The letter will tell you exactly what has been approved: this can involve equipment, software, transport and non-medical support (such as a specialist study skills tutor or a mental health mentor). It will also specify who the suppliers are.
    • Once you have received this letter it is important that you start contacting the relevant providers to ensure you get the support as soon as possible.
    • If you are receiving a laptop computer, there will usually be a £200 student contribution. However, if you are on a low income (household income must be under £28,065) it may be possible for you to apply to Birkbeck for funding so these costs can be reimbursed to you. Please contact Student Support and Wellbeing to discuss this.

  • Non-medical Helpers

    • Mentoring and study skills can make a significant difference to your ability to study quickly and effectively and we always encourage students to take up this support. If you need assistance with registering with your supplier, please email Student Support and Wellbeing.
    • Where you’re receiving specialist human support, such as BSL interpreting, electronic note-taking, mobility training or sighted guide, the supplier will need detailed information from the university in order to deliver this support. We recommend you book an appointment with your Disability and Mental Health Adviser by emailing the team. They will be able to ensure that the supplier has all the necessary information they need to deliver this support for you.

  • EU/International Students

    • If you are an EU student with settled status, you may be eligible to apply for the Disabled Students' Allowance. If you have pre-settled status, however, you will not be eligible. If you’re unsure about your eligibility, we recommend you contact Student Finance England on 0300 100 0607.
    • If you are an international student, we recommend you complete a Study Support Plan, which will help us to determine appropriate support for your needs. You can also contact your home country regarding whether they provide any funding to meet the cost of disability support.
    • We also recommend that you liaise with the Student Support and Wellbeing Service before you commence your course, so they can advise you on the support you can receive on enrolling at Birkbeck. You can email the team with your queries.