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Everything about DSA

What is the Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA)?

If you are resident in the UK, as a student with a disability, you may be entitled to the DSA.

The allowance can help with additional costs for:

  • Specialist equipment such as a computer, assistive software and any other aids which you may require to complete your course;
  • One-to-one support such as note-takers, study skills tutors and specialist dyslexia tutors;
  • Consumables such as paper, ink and photocopying;
  • Travel costs if your disability prevents you from being able to access public transport;
  • Consideration for other additional costs such as accommodation and travel.

 

DSA Equipment & Support Guide

The Needs Assessment Centre at Queen’s helps students apply for the Disabled Student Allowance (DSA) or similar award. They provide advice, guidance, and support through individually tailored needs assessments to assist with study-related difficulties caused by disabilities or long-term conditions. The recommendations may include equipment, software, and one-to-one support managed by the Register of Support Providers at Queen’s.

What is the Disabled Student Allowance (DSA)?

If you are a resident in the UK or ROI and are a student with a disability or long-term condition, you may be entitled to apply for the Disabled Student Allowance (UK) or the Republic of Ireland Fund for Students with Disabilities (ROI). These grants aim to "level the playing field" between disabled students and their non-disabled peers by covering any extra study-related costs incurred due to a disability, long-term condition/impairment, mental health condition, or learning difficulty. The award, which is not means-tested, is made up of four parts:

1. Specialist equipment allowance: This covers items required to better support access to learning and teaching, such as assistive technology (AT) software, hardware like a printer or laptop to support the aforementioned AT, a digital voice recorder, an ergonomic chair, etc.

2. Non-medical helper allowance: This covers the costs of one-to-one academic support, such as Note Takers, Dyslexia Tutors, Mental Health Tutors, Campus Assistants, proofreaders, Library Assistants, Typists, etc.

3. General allowance: This is an annual payment of £150 to cover other disability-related expenses, such as additional photocopying and printing/photocopying costs. 

4. Travel allowance: This covers the difference between everyday travel costs and any additional expenditure incurred as a result of a disability, such as the cost of travel to the University by taxi instead of public transport.

Further information and eligibility checks can be found on the following websites:

Your support package will be tailored to your specific needs, preferences, and course requirements. Your Needs Assessor will assist you in identifying the best solution or combination of solutions to meet your individual needs. 

The following list provides examples of the typical support recommendations given during a needs assessment. There is extensive support available, so be sure to scroll all the way down to find the support options relevant to your specific condition or disability. 

Please note that the allowances are administered by the relevant funder, and recipients do not receive cash sums.

Typical Support Recommendations

Including conditions such as mental health, neurodiversity, specific learning difficulties like Dyslexia, Dyspraxia and/or neurodevelopmental conditions such as ASD or ADHD. 

  • One-to-One Support

    One-to-One Support

    • Dyslexia Tutor
    • Study Skills Tutor
    • Maths & Statistics Tutor
    • Note Taker
    • Proof Reader
    • Exam Reader
    • Exam Scribe
    • Library Assistant
    • Typist / Audio Typist

    For further information see: Queen’s Student Guide to One-to-One Support

  • Brain in Hand

    Brain in Hand is an assistive technology software designed to support students, particularly those with learning difficulties, autism, or mental health challenges. It helps users manage daily tasks, improve their organisational skills, and navigate various situations by providing personalised support and guidance.

    For more information visit Brain in Hand

  • TextHelp Read&Write Software

    Texthelp Read&Write is an assistive technology tool designed to support literacy and learning by providing reading, writing, and comprehension assistance. Functions include reading text aloud, a phonetic spell checker, word prediction, a speaking dictionary and a scanning facility. It Supports students with dyslexia, ADHD, or other learning difficulties by providing reading and writing assistance.  More information can be found at the Texthelp higher education webpage. 

    To access support for use of the software's student-focused support features, visit the  Texthelp coffee cup webinars . 

  • TextHelp EquatIO Software

    Texthelp EquatIO is a digital tool designed to help students create, edit, and understand mathematical equations and expressions more easily. It provides a range of features that make it accessible and user-friendly, especially for students who may have difficulties with traditional methods of writing or comprehending maths. More information and a free trial can be accessed via the Equatio website.

     

  • ClaroRead Software

    ClaroRead is an assistive software tool designed to support students with reading, writing, and learning difficulties, such as dyslexia or other literacy challenges. It provides a range of features such as text-to-speech, dictation, word prediction and spelling and grammar checking that help improve reading comprehension, writing accuracy, and overall productivity in educational settings

  • Digital Voice Recorder (DVR) Hardware / Sonocent Audio Notetaker Software

    Olympus Digital Voice Recorders and directional microphones help students capture high-quality audio for lectures, interviews, and study sessions. These tools enhance sound clarity, making it easier to review recorded content.

    • Olympus Digital Voice Recorder:

      • High-Quality Audio: Clear recordings, with support for formats like MP3 and WAV.
      • Noise Reduction: Reduces background noise for better audio quality.
      • Voice Activation: Automatically starts/stops recording based on sound.
      • Long Battery Life: Suitable for long sessions.
      • Bookmarking and File Organization: Marks key points and organizes recordings.
      • Transcription Compatibility: Easily converts audio to text.

      Directional Microphone:

      • Focused Sound Capture: Records sound from a specific direction, minimising noise.
      • Portable and Compatible: Easy to attach and use in various locations.
      • Adjustable Pickup Patterns: Customisable to suit different environments.

    Sonocent is an audio notetaking software designed to help students capture, organise, and interact with recorded content. It allows students to record lectures, discussions, or personal notes and visually segment the audio into manageable chunks. Users can highlight key points, add text notes or images, and organize information in a colour-coded format for better review and comprehension. Sonocent is especially helpful for students with learning difficulties, as it supports active listening and more effective notetaking.

  • Medincle Software

    Medincle is a software tool that helps students in medical and healthcare-related fields with accurate spelling and terminology when writing assignments, reports, or research papers. It provides specialised medical dictionaries and spellcheckers that integrate with commonly used programs like Microsoft Word.

    Medincle supports medical jargon, drug names, anatomical terms, and other healthcare-specific language, making it easier for students to write with precision and avoid spelling errors. This tool is especially useful for students studying medicine, nursing, pharmacology, or other health sciences.

  • MindView Software

    MindView is a comprehensive mind mapping and visual learning tool designed to help students organise their thoughts, brainstorm ideas, and structure academic content effectively. It provides a range of features that support both learning and productivity, making it suitable for students of all ages and academic levels. Free trials and more information can be found on the Mindview homepage.

     

  • Dragon Dictation Professional Software

    Dragon Naturally Speaking is a speech recognition software that converts spoken words into text, making it easier for students to complete writing tasks, control their computers, and interact with digital content using their voice. It is especially beneficial for students with learning difficulties, physical impairments, or those who prefer an alternative to typing. More information can be found on the Dragon homepage.

     

  • Smart Notetaking Pen

    A Smart Notetaking Pen is a digital pen designed to help students take notes more effectively by capturing both handwritten text and audio. It allows students to write on special paper while simultaneously recording what is being said, syncing the audio with the written notes.

    When students tap on their notes later, the pen can play back the corresponding audio, making it easier to review important points from lectures or discussions. This tool is particularly beneficial for students who want to enhance their notetaking by combining written and audio content for comprehensive study materials.

  • Glean Software

    Glean is an audio notetaking software designed to help students capture, organize, and review spoken content from lectures, meetings, or study sessions. It allows students to record audio and add visual markers or notes to highlight important points in real-time. Users can later revisit and refine their notes by adding text, images, or tags to the recorded content. Glean promotes active listening, helps students focus on key information, and supports different learning styles, making it especially useful for students with learning difficulties such as dyslexia or ADHD.

  • Aspire Software and App

    Aspire is a software platform designed to support students with learning difficulties, mental health conditions, or disabilities by helping them develop self-management and organisational skills.

    It offers tools and resources for setting goals, tracking progress, and managing daily tasks and routines. Aspire provides personalised support strategies and allows students to monitor their own development, promoting independence and self-regulation. It is especially useful for students who need assistance with time management, motivation, and achieving academic or personal goals.

  • Caption.Ed

    Caption.Ed is an assistive technology tool designed to support students in capturing and understanding spoken content during lectures, discussions, or presentations. The software provides real-time captioning and transcription services, enabling students to read along with what is being said. This can be particularly beneficial for students who are deaf or hard of hearing, as well as those who prefer visual learning aids.

  • Light Key

    Lightkey is a predictive text software designed to enhance typing efficiency and accuracy, particularly for students and professionals. It uses artificial intelligence to suggest words and phrases as users type, helping to speed up the writing process and reduce typing errors.

  • Talk Type Dictation software (for MAC)

    TalkType is a speech recognition software designed to help users convert spoken words into text. It is particularly beneficial for students, professionals, and individuals who prefer dictating their thoughts rather than typing. TalkType can enhance productivity and accessibility, making it easier to create documents, emails, and other written content.

     

  • Present Pal

    PresentPal is a digital presentation tool designed to assist users in creating and delivering engaging presentations. It provides features that enhance the presentation experience for both presenters and audiences, making it particularly useful for students, educators, and professionals.

  • Global Tasks Software

    Global Tasks is a task management and productivity software designed to help users organize, prioritize, and track their tasks and projects effectively. It is particularly beneficial for students, professionals, and teams looking to enhance their productivity and stay on top of their responsibilities.

    More information can be found here

Visual Impairment

  • One-to-One Support

    One-to-One Support

    • Note Taker
    • Reader
    • Exam Reader / Exam Scribe
    • Library Assistant
    • Audio Typist
    • Campus Assistant

     For further information see: Queen’s Student Guide to One-to-One Support

  • Zoom Text Software

    Zoom Text Magnifier/Reader allows users with a visual impairment to access a PC through screen magnification and voice synthesizer feedback. The software enables users to see and hear what they are doing in all PC applications; Zoom Text is able to read documents, web pages and email - which the user is able to listen to using headphones or the computer's speakers. More information can be found at Freedom Scientific. 

  • JAWS (Job Access With Speech)

    JAWS (Job Access With Speech) is a powerful screen reader software designed for students who are blind or have severe visual impairments. It enables them to access and interact with digital content on their computers using auditory feedback and keyboard shortcuts. JAWS translates on-screen information, such as text, menus, and commands, into speech or Braille output, making it possible for students to navigate the digital world independently. More information can be found at Freedom Scientific. 

Hearing Impairment

  • One-to-One Support

    One-to-One Support

    • Note Taker
    • Study Skills Tutor

    For further information see: Queen’s Student Guide to One-to-One Support

  • Roger Pen

    Roger Pen is a wireless microphone designed to assist students in hearing and understanding speech more clearly, especially in noisy environments or during lectures. It is part of the Roger technology by Phonak, which enhances communication for individuals with hearing loss.

    More information can be found here

  • Pro Study Software

    Pro Study is an assistive technology tool designed specifically to support students with hearing loss in their learning environments. This software aids in note-taking and comprehension by providing features that enhance audio accessibility and facilitate effective study practices.

  • Dragon Professional Software

    Dragon Naturally Speaking is a speech recognition software that converts spoken words into text, making it easier for students to complete writing tasks, control their computers, and interact with digital content using their voice. It is especially beneficial for students with learning difficulties, physical impairments, or those who prefer an alternative to typing. More information can be found on the Dragon homepage.

Other Support

  • One-to-One Support

    One-to-One Support

    • Note Taker
    • Campus Assistant
    • Exam Scribe
    • Typist / Audio Typist
    • Library Assistant

    For further information see: Queen’s Student Guide to One-to-One Support

  • Support for Long-Term Illness/Condition (e.g., Crohn’s disease, epilepsy, cancer, heart condition, scoliosis, fibromyalgia)

    • Specialist Equipment: DSA can fund specialised equipment to help manage the condition or its symptoms, such as ergonomic chairs.

    • Assistance: Funding may be available for campus assistants who can help students with getting around.

    • Travel Costs: DSA can help cover additional travel costs incurred due to the condition. 

    • Study Aids: Funding for software or assistive technology that aids learning and study, such as voice recognition software or note-taking apps.

    • Exam Arrangements: 1-1 Support during examinations, such as the provision of scribes or note-takers.
  • Support for Physical/Mobility Difficulties (e.g., cerebral palsy, hypermobility syndrome, scoliosis)

    • Specialist Equipment: DSA can fund specialised equipment to help manage the condition or its symptoms, such as ergonomic chairs.

    • Assistance: Funding may be available for campus assistants who can help students with getting around.

    • Travel Costs: DSA can help cover additional travel costs incurred due to the condition. 

    • Study Aids: Funding for software or assistive technology that aids learning and study, such as voice recognition software or note-taking apps.

    • Exam Arrangements: 1-1 Support during examinations, such as the provision of scribes or note-takers.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply for DSA?

  • Complete a DSA1 form (available at www.studentfinanceni.co.uk) and send this to your Education Authority or equivalent funding body eg SFE. Please note that if you are a Nursing student in receipt of a bursary, a DSA1 form is not required.
  • Include up-to-date detailed medical evidence or an Educational Psychologist’s report if you have a specific learning difficulty such as dyslexia, along with your DSA1 form.
  • Once you have received a letter from your Education Authority confirming that you are eligible for DSA, book your needs assessment by contacting the Needs Assessment Centre on 028 9097 5062 or nac@qub.ac.uk  

Disabled Students' Allowance Process Made Easy

Complete relevant DSA01 Form and return to the Education Authority with medical evidence.

'Section 5' of the DSA01 Form can be completed at the Student Information Point, Level 1, One Elmwood Student Centre.

The Education Authority will confirm eligibility for DSA within approximately 8 weeks.

Student contacts the Needs Assessment Centre (NAC) to arrange an appointment. All appointments are offered within 10 days of initial contact.

Student attends a meeting with their Needs Assessor to discuss individual support needs.

The Needs Assessment Report is finalised within 10 working days and sent to the student for review.

The report is sent to the Education Authority to be processed. The student's University Disability Officer is also provided with a copy of the report.

The Education Authority will confirm by letter (DSA02 letter) which recommendations have been approved within 6-8 weeks. Your DSA02 letter will tell you who your NMH (non-medical helpers) provider is - whether it is QUB or external.*

If the student has not received a letter by 8 weeks they should contact the Education Authority directly by phone or email.

Equipment Delivery:

Student to organise directly with the Supplier and Education Authority. This process can take a further 4-6 weeks.

Training Delivery:

Student to organise directly with the Supplier and Education Authority.

One-to-One Support

If your NMH provider is QUB, we will organise one-to-one support for you following approval of recommendations by the Education Authority.*

On the rare occasion that your NMH provider is not QUB, and is external, we will provide you with contact details for your provider and advise you on how you can set up your one-to-one support.*

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