Funding your support

Last updated: 15/08/2024 16:15

Learn about the funding available to cover additional study related support.

Disabled Students' Allowance

If you are a home student, you may be entitled to a Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA). The DSA is a non-means-tested benefit available to disabled students, designed to cover any additional study-related costs due to your access requirements.

DSA can potentially help you with funding towards:

• specialist equipment (for example software, hardware and ergonomic equipment)
• non-medical helpers (for example specialist study skills support and mentoring)
• general additional disability-related expenses
• extra travel costs

The allowance is only available to UK students via your funding body. It is provided in addition to the standard student finance package you receive and is subject to various terms and conditions.

How to apply

It's important to begin your DSA application process as early as possible, you can make your application via your funding body in advance of starting your course or at any time during your time of study.

Please be aware that the application process can be different for undergraduate and postgraduate students and those studying on a course funded by the NHS and Research Councils. Check your funding body’s website for details on how to apply.

If you have any questions about making your DSA application get in touch.

Evidence for your application

When you apply, you'll need to provide evidence that you have a disability as defined by the Equality Act (2010).

Examples of supporting evidence include a GP or specialist’s letter. In the case of a specific learning difficulty a diagnostic report, by a suitably qualified assessor.

International students

If you're an international student you will not be able to apply for the Disabled Students Allowance. We will work with you to assess your needs and implement appropriate reasonable adjustments and support for you to access your studies.

There may be additional funding available from your home government or your sponsor to cover any extra expenses you have because of your disability.

Personal care and assistance

Some students require personal care and assistance to help with daily living, such as assistance with cooking, shopping, bathing and dressing.

This support is not provided by the university, however we will work with you to provide advice and information on arranging support with external providers and Social Services.

If you're a UK student, Social Services will be responsible for funding your personal care package. If you are an international student, it is important that you consider how you will fund your personal care assistance (for example, privately, via sponsor or charitable trust) and that you arrange this support before you begin living and studying in Cardiff.

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