If you’re a UK student with a disability, long-term health condition, mental health condition or learning difference like dyslexia, you could be entitled to extra support through the Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA).
But we know the process can feel overwhelming at first – especially if you’ve never heard of it before. That’s why we’re breaking it down for you, step by step, with links to helpful resources and communities like This Student Needs, where you can hear directly from other disabled students.
💡 What is the DSA?
The Disabled Students’ Allowance is funding provided by the UK government to support students with the extra costs of studying that arise due to a disability or condition.
It’s not a loan – so you don’t have to pay it back.
The support you receive is tailored to your needs, which means you could be offered things like:
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Assistive technology (like Tailo or Present Pal)
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Specialist study skills support
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Equipment, software, or ergonomic furniture
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A non-medical helper or support worker
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Extra travel costs (if applicable)
You can apply if you’re a student in higher education (like university or college) and you’re studying full-time or part-time on an eligible course.
📝 How to Apply for the DSA
It’s easier than you might think — here’s a quick overview:
1. Start your student finance application
You can apply for DSA even if you’re not taking out a full student loan, but you’ll still need a Student Finance account.
- Apply for DSA – England
- DSA – Scotland (SAAS)
- DSA – Wales (Student Finance Wales)
- DSA – Northern Ireland
2. Send in proof of your condition
This might be a medical letter or an assessment report (for example, a dyslexia diagnostic report).
3. Attend a Needs Assessment
You’ll be invited to a meeting with a trained professional to chat about how your condition affects your studies and what support would help. Top tip: You can ask for specific apps and support if you think you could benefit from them!
4. Receive your DSA support
After your assessment, Student Finance will write to you with your approved support. This may include access to assistive tech tools like Tailo, software training, or study skills tutoring.
🎧 Learn More from Other Students
We know it’s one thing to read the official advice – but it’s another to hear from people who’ve actually been through it. That’s where our This Student Needs community comes in.
On TikTok and Instagram, we share real stories and tips from disabled students who’ve:
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Navigated the DSA process
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Tried out different assistive tech tools
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Managed the ups and downs of university life
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Balanced academic life with disability, identity, and mental health
Come join the community:
📱 TikTok: @ThisStudentNeeds
📸 Instagram: @ThisStudentNeeds
Whether you’re just starting uni or halfway through your degree, there’s support out there – and students like you who are ready to share what they’ve learned.
💬 Final Thoughts
The DSA exists to level the playing field. You deserve support that meets your needs and helps you study with confidence.
And if you’re recommended a tool like Tailo, we’ll be here to help you get started, stay organised, and make dense academic reading a lot less overwhelming.
Got questions about Tailo or want to hear more from the community?
Drop us a message on TikTok – or explore more on our Tailo for Students page.
Written by Ben Scott
Marketing Manager