What is DSA?
DSA is non-means tested government funding administered via Local Education Authorities (LEAs) [Wales] / Student Finance England [England] which can be used to pay for study related support needs for disabled students in higher education.
Who is eligible?
UK residents with a recognised disability with supporting documentary evidence
enrolled on or due to enrol on a recognised higher education course
studying at least 60 credits per academic year.
How to apply for DSA?
Students wishing to apply for DSA will need to complete a DSA1 application form, which can be obtained from http://www.studentfinancewales.co.uk or http://www.studentsupportdirect.co.uk and send it to their funding body along with a copy of supporting documentary evidence verifying their disability.
What Support is Available ?
The DSA is made up of:
an equipment allowance to pay for specialist equipment and software;
a non-medical helper's allowance to pay for any academic-related human support;
a general allowance to pay for additional costs incurred as a direct result of a disability, i.e. photocopying, printer consumables, travel, etc.
Funding bodies require students to undergo a study skills and technology assessment, where the assessor will determine the individual support requirements and will recommend suitable provisions to be paid for via the DSA. The Disability Service can assist students with arranging their Study Skills and Technology Assessments with a local Assessment Centre. In order to make a referral to Newport Assessment Centre the Disability Service will require a copy of written confirmation that the LEA will meet the cost of this assessment.
Once a support package is agreed the Disability Service can help students to implement any human support recommendations such as Study Skills Tuition, Note taking, Buddy support, Mentoring, Orientation Training etc.
The Disability Service can provide support for those who are not eligible for DSA and also interim support for students who are waiting for their DSA package to be agreed. Contact the Disability Team to find out more about provisions such as equipment loans and drop in Study Skills Tuition.
For more information, please contact Student Services on 01633 432657 or email disability@newport.ac.uk