Do not delay your DSA application.
Are your are vision impaired and applying for university? If you have not submitted your DSA application, then there is not a moment to lose.
What is it and how do I apply?
DSA stands for Disabled Students Allowance and is a government grant funding specialist support for students with disabilities.
Your DSA is your key to success, as it will fund the specialist equipment and support you need in order to be successful at degree level. Universities may also use the report from your Study Needs assessment (see below) to identify the ‘reasonable adjustments’ that they need to make.
You need medical evidence of your disability. This must have been issued within the last three years and must be from a health professional such as a GP. In practice, this is likely to be a copy of relevant medical records with an appropriately dated cover letter.
The easiest way to apply is online, although you can apply by post if you prefer. Each UK nation has its own process. So check what you need to do if you’re from Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland. It can take several weeks for your application to be processed. So the sooner you do it, the better.
What is the study needs assessment?
The Study Needs Assessment is arguably the most important part of the DSA application process. It is a meeting between you and an assessor, who talks to you about support you’ve had in the past and the support you will need for your course. The assessor is the person responsible for recommending the equipment you’ll need, as well as the support you will get. Preparation is essential.