You can apply for DSA any time before or during your course. To obtain a DSA form you should either contact an Accessibility Adviser or your funding body. You will need to provide evidence of your disability - a recent medical report or, in the case of Specific Learning Differences, such as Dyslexia, a diagnostic psychological report (or equivalent from a suitably qualified practitioner). If you do not have one, we can arrange for a Psychological Assessment if required.
There are no set amounts - you will only get enough to cover your individual needs. In order to establish your individual needs your funding body will normally ask you to undergo an Assessment of Needs - your funding authority will meet the cost of this.
However, there is a limit to the amount of help available, the maximum levels of DSA change slightly each year and the current figures can be found here
Your funding body can authorise an Assessment of Need to be carried out before the start of term. Contact your funding authority for more detailed information. An Accessibility Adviser will discuss the recommendations made in your Assessment of Need once you have enrolled on your course.
For more information on DSAs, please visit the DSA section of GOV.UK or the DSA Section of the Student Awards Agency Scotland (SAAS) website.
The earlier you apply for DSA the better. You can apply at any time once you have applied for a place at University. The process of obtaining assessments and equipment may be slow, especially during the first few weeks of term when staff in funding bodies and universities are very busy.
Therefore it can take many weeks between your initial application and the arrival of equipment. It is important that you maintain contact with your funding body and Accessibility Adviser throughout the process and respond quickly when you are required to do something.
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