If you or your child is going to University this Autumn and diagnosed as dyslexic, did you know that you are eligible for the Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA)?
This government fund provides support for UK students considered as “disabled” (defined as “if they have a physical or mental impairment that substantially or long-term negatively affects their ability to carry out normal daily activities”) and includes assistance with the cost of specialist equipment, one to one support and Access Arrangements.
This also covers individuals who have other disabilities such as ADHD, ASD, DCD, dysgraphia and dyscalculia. Read our blog, “Improved learning with a DSA”.
In this months’ blog, we’ll be giving A Student’s Guide to the DSA – top tips on how to prepare for the DSA application process, how long it takes and how much of a difference having this funding could make to an individual.
1. Who is eligible for the DSA?
The criteria as set by the government is that you must be a:
- UK student in higher education, either as an undergraduate or postgraduate on a course that lasts at least a year. This includes part-time, Open University and distance learning courses).
- Hold a formal diagnosis for your disability from a qualified professional.
- Display that the diagnosed disability makes an impact on your studying ability.
- And that you qualify for student finance from Student Finance England.
2. How to avoid delays in the DSA application process
The application process involves the initial application, providing evidence of your disability, attending a needs assessment and receiving confirmation of support.
This can take up to 14 weeks, so preparation will avoid any delays.
- You must have a diagnostic dyslexia assessment before applying for the DSA. Always check an assessor’s qualifications on the SpLD Assessment Standards Committee website.
- Evidence of your acceptance into your course.
- Details of any previous support you’ve received, for example, if you have equipment from a previous allowance, the amount you receive may change.
Once you have all of these details, you are ready to apply. You can apply as soon as you apply for student finance, or when student finance applications open – this is usually around February to March.
3. How long does the DSA application process take?
The application process can take up to 14 weeks, so it’s important not to wait until term starts. Applying early (when they open in February or March time) helps to ensure your support is approved and ready before your classes begin.
4. What information can I include to support my DSA application?
Supporting information helps to demonstrate your eligibility and specific needs.
- Your formal diagnosis of dyslexia from a qualified professional. If you have other disabilities, include a letter from a medical professional that confirms your condition.
- Give your own statement – detailing how your disability affects your studies – the challenges you face and the support you may need.
- A previous tutor or school may be able to provide support evidence that highlights your need for assistance
5. Invitation to a Needs Assessment
You may be asked to attend a Needs Assessment meeting (or Study Needs Assessment). This meeting gives you the opportunity to discuss your specific challenges so that the assessors can recommend the right tools to support your learning.
Be prepared, write down a list of your challenges – this meeting is your chance to explore different assistive technologies that may help.
6. What happens after the DSA Needs Assessment?
After your assessment, you’ll get:
- a report with the recommendations made by your supplier based on your assessment
- an entitlement letter explaining what support you can get.
The DSA can help by funding study related support, extra travel expenses and specialist equipment.
Study Tech or Capita, the chosen suppliers, will then contact you to discuss your equipment and arrange any assistive technology training (for example, text-to-speech software or note-taking apps) you need. Your entitlement letter will also tell you if you need to contact any suppliers yourself.
7. How much is the DSA allowance?
In the 2025 to 2026 academic year, students can get up to £27,783 a year. Check the Gov.uk website for yearly updates.
Most payments are sent directly to the suppliers, and some allowances may be paid directly to you.
The DSA is a grant, not a loan, and does not need to be repaid.
Summary
The DSA supports undergraduate and postgraduate students to overcome challenges caused by their disability. Following a needs assessment, they may be recommended assistive equipment that helps them to overcome challenges, or they may receive additional support such as mentoring or extra exam time.
We recommend applying as early as possible, and to be prepared with your documentation, notes and questions. Application to approval takes around 14 weeks, and we suggest applying as soon as you receive your University acceptance.
The DSA helps dyslexic individuals to overcome challenges and to fulfil their potential.
About Dyslexia First
At Dyslexia First we want to help those who are living with dyslexia to enjoy life and the opportunities it brings. We are relentlessly positive about dyslexia.
If you would like to talk further about dyslexia and discuss assessment for children or adults, please get in touch.
Getting assessed by a qualified practitioner is crucial to getting the correct diagnosis and accessing the help and support you need for your child. Always check an assessor’s qualifications at: SpLD Assessment Standards Committee website.
Exam Season Tips and Support for Dyslexics: How to Prepare and Succeed
With exam season fast approaching, dyslexic students can often face additional challenges in preparing for and sitting exams.
In this blog post, we’ll provide advice and tips for dyslexic students and also offer guidance on how teachers, parents, and friends can support them during this time. Let’s help empower dyslexic learners and leave them feeling confident walking into exams!
Improved Learning with a Disabled Students’ Allowance
Many people are unaware that dyslexic learners are eligible for the Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA). If you or your child is thinking of going to University, applying for a DSA could mean that you’re entitled to new equipment and technology that will help you reach your full potential as an undergraduate or postgraduate student.
What happens during a dyslexia assessment?
A dyslexia assessment can be a life changing experience.
In our latest blog, we share more on what to expect during a dyslexia assessment, how long it takes, and the areas tested to conclude a diagnosis.
