Disabled Students’ Allowance

If you are enrolling on a higher education course at Grantham College and have a disability or learning difficulty, then you may be eligible to apply for Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA).

What is DSA?

DSA is a grant that pays for extra study-related costs that arise as a direct result of a student’s disability. This could include a long-term health condition, mental health condition, autism spectrum condition or specific learning difference such as dyslexia. You will need evidence of your diagnosis to apply for DSA.

What can DSAs pay for?

The support funded is based on a student’s individual needs but may include:

Support workers (called non-medical helpers), for example mental health mentoring or study skills support
Specialist software or equipment
Extra travel costs and some other course-related expenses

How do I apply?

You can apply online at the same time as applying for other funding through Student Finance England, usually at the end of February / beginning of March. Or you can download an application form.

How can I find out more about DSA?

For further information about DSA, including eligibility, the evidence required and how to apply, visit the government website: Help if you’re a student with a learning difficulty, health problem or disability: Disabled Students’ Allowance – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

If you are applying for a course at Grantham College that is run in conjunction with Bishop Grosseteste University, you can also see BGU’s DSA information.

If you have any questions about DSA, we are happy to help. Contact Ellen Thompson: ethompson@grantham.ac.uk