Step 1: Complete DSA application form
Once form has been completed, please inform your funding body that you require support. The strength of your application can be enhanced by providing evidence from a health care professional.
If you believe or know, that you have a learning disability, you will need to complete a “post 16 diagnostic report.” This can be done through a chartered or practitioner psychologist, or a specialist teacher with an Assessment Practicing Certificate.
Step 2: Find out if you are eligible
When your funding body receives your application, they will consider all the information that you have provided and will send you a letter informing you whether you have qualified for the DSA. The letter should be received 2 weeks after your funding body receives your application.
Step 3: Attend a “Needs Assessment”
When you have received confirmation that you are eligible for a DSA grant, you will need to arrange a “Needs Assessment”. Your needs assessment will identify the support that you require, whether it be in the form of specialist equipment and software or any other support. This will not be a test. It is a conversation with a trained professional to see how the DSA can best support you in your studies. The meeting can last one to two hours.
You can find your nearest assessment centre by visiting the National Network of Assessment Centres. https://www.nnac.org/fundingbodies/findcentre.php
Step 4: Your needs assessment report
After your needs assessment you will receive a report informing you of:
- Your recommended support
- How much it will cost
- Where to get your support
Student Finance England will also receive a copy of your Needs Assessment report.
Step 5: Find out how much the DSA can pay
You will receive a letter from Student Finance England informing you whether they will fund the recommendations in your Needs Assessment report with a partial or full award.
You will now be able to place your order with the recommended supplier.
Take a look at “Place your order,” to see the process for ordering and receiving your solution.
Step 6:
Your funding body will directly pay the approved supplier with the possibility of a £200 contribution from either the funding body or student.
If you are a SAAS or NHS student a funding will be given to you directly to pay for your order.
