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© 2026. The Purpl Co Limited. All rights reserved.
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© 2026. The Purpl Co Limited. All rights reserved.
3 min read
Written by
Purpl
Published on
August 27, 2025
Navigating university life can be challenging, especially when managing a disability. The Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) is here to help. This UK government-funded support provides financial assistance to students with disabilities, long-term health conditions, mental health conditions, or specific learning difficulties, ensuring they have the necessary resources to succeed in higher education.
The Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) is a non-repayable grant designed to cover the extra costs students incur due to their disability. Unlike other student finance, DSA is not means-tested, meaning your household income doesn’t affect your eligibility. The allowance can help with:
It’s important to note that DSA doesn’t cover general living costs or expenses unrelated to your studies.
To qualify for DSA, you must:
DSA is available to full-time, part-time, and postgraduate students, including those studying with the Open University or via distance learning. However, students on apprenticeships are not eligible for DSA.
DSA supports students with various conditions, including:
If you’re unsure whether your condition qualifies, it’s advisable to contact your student finance provider for guidance.
The amount of DSA funding varies based on individual needs, as determined through a study needs assessment. The funding is divided into four main categories:
The exact amount you receive will depend on your specific requirements and the recommendations made during your study needs assessment.
Applying for DSA involves several steps:
It’s recommended to apply as early as possible, ideally before your course starts, to ensure timely provision of support.
Yes, if you’re studying part-time or through the Open University, you’ll need to apply for DSA each academic year. However, if you’re a full-time student, you typically don’t need to reapply unless your circumstances change. It’s essential to keep your student finance provider informed of any changes to your condition or study status.
You may not be eligible for DSA if:
It’s crucial to check the specific eligibility criteria with your student finance provider to ensure you meet all requirements.
Beyond DSA, universities often offer additional support services, such as:
Contact your university’s disability support office to learn more about the services available to you.
For further information and guidance on DSA, visit the official GOV.UK page on Disabled Students’ Allowance.
Follow @Purpldiscounts on social media for the latest disability discounts, financial advice, and accessibility resources.
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How to Get Help as a Disabled Student – DSA