choices

Higher Education

Information about Higher Education and how to apply can be found in the education part of this site. Below is some information that you might find useful if you have a disability.

Going to university with a disability

Some young people with a disability will progress from 6th form or college to University.

Did you know that extra financial support is available from the Disabled Students' Allowance? Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA) is funded by the Department for Education and Skills (DfES) and administered by Local Education Authority Awards Department.

DSA - some basic facts

• DSA is an additional source of funding for Students with a Disability or a Health/Medical Condition (including Dyslexia).

• DSA is intended to compensate students for additional costs incurred because of a special educational need.

• DSA is not means tested, not affected by any other state benefits received by the student and is independent of student loans and tuition fees.

• DSA is not intended to meet all disabled students' Higher Education costs, only additional costs incurred above those of non-disabled students. There are Four Elements to DSA:

Allowance for Specialist Equipment Costs

Allowance for Non Medical Helper Costs

A General Allowance to meet additional costs incurred and

 Allowance to fund additional transport costs as the result of a disability

The role of the Connexions Service is to support students through the initial application process. Most universities employ a Disability Adviser who provides support and guidance to students with a disability on a day-to-day basis.

There is a booklet which gives details of the current levels of the allowances called 'Bridging the Gap' available - Freephone: 0800 731 9133, or ask your Personal Adviser at school.