20 April 2026
Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA) is the main route to funded study support for UK students with a learning difference, mental-health condition, or long-term health condition. It pays for assistive software, specialist 1-to-1 study support, and other reasonable adjustments — and it doesn't have to be repaid.
The application has three stages: apply through Student Finance, complete a Needs Assessment with an approved assessor, and receive a recommendations report. Most students get a decision within four to six weeks once their evidence is in.
The biggest cause of delay is missing evidence. You'll need a diagnostic report or letter from a qualified professional confirming your condition. If you don't have one yet, get this sorted before you start the form — you can apply for DSA at the same time as your main student finance application, but it can't be approved without the evidence.
Once your DSA is approved, ask your needs assessor about My-Prompt — we're a recommended assistive technology supplier and offer free training as part of your award.