Lots of people do not consider their medical condition/mental health a disability and will often not apply for the support that is available to them.

The Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) covers a wide range of conditions and is often overlooked by many students because of its title.

There are many positives to having this DSA support in place and it can provide financial aid in many different ways.

You could be eligible to apply for DSA if you have a:

• Long-term health condition including crohns, sickle cell and multiple sclerosis
• Mental health condition such as OCD, anxiety or depression
• Specific learning difficulty like dyslexia
• Neurodivergent conditions including autism

To be eligible to apply you must be a UK home student and on a course, which is also eligible. Check in with disability@dmu.ac.uk or wellbeing@dmu.ac.uk to find out more.

If you are eligible to receive DSA you could receive support towards the cost of lots of things to make it easier while studying at university. These can include:

• Specialist equipment, such as a computer or ergonomic chairs
• Non-medical helpers, autism and mental health mentors, specialist study skills tutors
• Travel costs specifically related to your condition

If you are still unsure about whether you are eligible to apply this video produced by Diversity and Ability explains more about the process and how to apply and what to expect when filling out the application. You can also hear from DMU students who have received DSA and how it benefitted them and their university experience.

Apply now