DSAs help cover the extra costs, such as communication support or equipment that you will have as a deaf student. They are paid by local education authorities (LEAs) or health authorities (HAs).

Types of DSAs

Disabled Student's Allowances fall into three categories:

Specialist Equipment Allowance

This allowance is to help buy or rent any major items of equipment you may need.  It can also be used to pay for any repair or extended warranty costs arising from owning such equipment. The allowance consists of a maximum amount that must last for the whole of your course.

Non-Medical Helpers Allowance

This allowance pays for interpreters, note-takers and other support workers, which you may need to fully benefit from your course. This allowance consists of a maximum amount that is for one year only. It doesn't matter how much you use, the same amount is available every year you study.

General Disabled Students’ Allowance

The general allowance usually covers minor costs such as photocopying and Braille paper, but can be used as a top-up for other allowances if necessary. This allowance also consists of an amount that is for one year only. It doesn't matter how much you use, the same amount is available every year you study.

What DSAs don't help with

DSA is not intended to assist with deaf-related costs which you would incur if you weren't studying. Your local social services department may help with these costs. 

Who can apply?

You can apply for DSA if:

You will not get DSA if you attend an eligible course but you are

Your LEA/HA must be satisfied that your deafness will mean you have extra costs while studying on your course. You must, therefore, provide medical evidence such as a letter from your GP or hospital doctor.

Part-time students

Part-time students are also eligible for DSA. Because they study less in one year than full-time students the DSA maximums are different as a result. The equipment allowance remains the same, but the non medical helpers allowance and the general allowances are reduced in proportion. For example, full-time students study eight modules per year. If a part-time student in Year 1 studies four modules (that is, 50% of full time), then they will be allowed 50% of the maximum allowance. If a part-time student studies six modules, they will be allowed 75% of the maximum.

Postgraduate students

Postgraduate students on recognised taught and research courses will be eligible for DSA. The course should be equivalent to one which could be eligible for awards from the research councils. This course should last at least one year if full-time and more than one year if part-time.