Financial support for disabled students

If you are a student with a disability in the UK, you may be eligible for disabled students allowance (DSA) to help cover the costs associated with your condition; these can include costs for equipment you may need to complete your course (e.g. a laptop of a suitable specification), or things you need for day to day living (e.g. a fridge for someone who has diabetes and needs to store insulin). Certain students will also be eligible for digital products, that can aid in spell checking and dictation, for example. Here are a few life hacks to help you take advantage of this assistance:

• Research your eligibility: The first step is to find out if you are eligible for DSA. This will likely require providing documentation of your condition, such as a doctor's note or proof of diagnosis. Normally you can ask your university if you are eligable.

• Apply for the allowance: Once you have determined that you are eligible, it's time to apply for the allowance. This can typically be done online or through your university's financial aid office. Be sure to provide all necessary documentation and information to ensure a smooth and successful application process.

• Use the allowance wisely: Once you receive your disability allowance, it's important to use the funds wisely. This may mean using the money to cover necessary medical expenses, purchasing assistive technology or equipment, or hiring a personal assistant to help with daily tasks. You may also find that the funds are given to you in the form of the products directly.

Overall, a disability allowance can be a valuable resource for students with disabilities in the UK. By researching your eligibility and applying for the allowance, you can make the most of this assistance and focus on succeeding in your studies.