Disabled Students' Allowance
The Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA) is intended to assist with additional costs UK students may have to incur as a result of their disability.
The DSA is available to students who are studying at degree level or beyond. The allowance is available to cover areas of need for example, specialist equipment and a non-medical helper allowance, this could be a specialist tutor for dyslexia, a sign support worker or note taker etc.
You can obtain further information from your local DSA funding body:
Students from the Republic of Ireland may be entitled to funding via the Fund for Students with Disabilities (which is funded by the Irish Government). For further information about the fund, guidance on making an application and other financial support, please visit their webpage.
International students
Unfortunately, international students are not eligible for the UK government disability allowances. However, the University can offer some Study Skills sessions and some basic equipment.
It is the responsibility of the EU and overseas students to enquire from their own country whether or not they are eligible for any financial help. More information about eligibility and how to apply, can be found on the government website.
Evidence of disability or health condition
If you have a specific learning difficulty (Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, ADHD/ADD, ASD etc.) and have a diagnostic assessment, please contact us so that we can advise you on applying for funding (Disabled Students Allowance/DSA). We can then have the appropriate support in place for when your studies commence.
If you don't have a diagnostic assessment, then this can be arranged through Ravensbourne. You can arrange this through Student Services.
For all other disabilities and long term health conditions, you will need medical evidence or a report from a suitably qualified specialist to support your funding application.
What should I do if I suspect I may have a disability or learning difficulty?
If you are unsure but think you might have a disability or a learning difficulty we would encourage you to contact Student Services as early as possible. We will offer you an informal discussion regarding your needs and study at Ravensbourne.
Once your course begins, it can be difficult to prioritise this so we would encourage you to get in touch as soon as any issues arise, so that we can get appropriate support in place to enable you to get the most out of your time at Ravensbourne.
If you have declared on your application form that you have a disability or learning difficulty, Student Services will contact you by email with a checklist prior to enrolment.
Further advice
If you need further advice or information regarding DSA please attend one of the Disability Drop-in's which are held on Level 4 in the Grey booths on Mondays and Fridays between 12:30pm - 1:30pm.
