Funding postgraduate study: Disability-related funding

Disabled students won't get any extra statutory funding. However, additional support is available to help cover disability-related course costs

If you are a UK-based student and have disability-related course costs in your postgraduate study, then you may be eligible for support through the Disabled Students' Allowances (DSA) scheme.

DSAs are grants to help students with disabilities, mental health conditions or learning difficulties meet the cost of specialist equipment and other related course costs. In order to be eligible, your course must be full time and last for a minimum of one year.

Part-time students are still eligible, providing you do not exceed twice the time period taken to complete an equivalent full-time course. You cannot apply for a DSA if you have received a Research Council award, are eligible for an NHS or other health-care bursary including social work, or are on a paid placement. You may be able to contact your awarding body to see if they have any additional disability-related allowances.

What am I entitled to?

Unlike undergraduate DSAs, postgraduates receive their allowance in one lump sum. Postgraduate DSAs are not 'means' tested, meaning that your income, background and savings will not be taken into account when determining how much you will receive. Instead, a 'needs assessment' will be carried out to determine what support you need for specialist equipment, non-medical helpers and travel.

In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, the maximum amount for 2012/13 is £10,260 per year, which covers all costs. Postgraduate DSAs are assessed by Student Finance England  and Student Finance Wales .

Students from Northern Ireland will need to contact their local Education and Library Board (ELB). Search for your local ELB at Student Finance Northern Ireland . In Scotland, DSAs are available at undergraduate rates, with the allowance amount depending on your needs assessment and subsequent requirements. Allowances in Scotland are provided by the Student Awards Agency for Scotland (SAAS) .