There’s no exhaustive list of which conditions make someone eligible for DSA. However, you can use the guidance for your country to work out if you may be eligible.
England, Wales and Northern Ireland
You can access DSA if you meet the definition of disability in the 2010 Equality Act. This means you must have a “physical or mental impairment that has a ‘substantial’ and ‘long-term’ negative effect on your ability to do normal daily activities.”
What makes a condition ‘substantial’ and ‘long-term’?
'Substantial':The Equality Act defines 'substantial' as 'more than minor or trivial'.
Are the barriers you are experiencing different to those faced by people who don’t have your diagnosis or condition? The Act gives the example of whether it takes longer to 'complete a daily task like getting dressed'. It may be helpful to think about this in the context of your university experience – do you notice that you find things harder than your peers, for example:
- Do you find it hard to complete your assignments on time?
- Do you have to work around physical barriers at your university, for example, using lifts, ramps or accessible entrances to buildings?
- Do you notice that your peers seem to find it easier to focus in lectures or classes?
Long-term: The Equality Act defines 'long-term as either:
- has lasted more than 12 months, or
- is likely to last at least 12 months
For example, if you have a progressive condition like HIV or cancer, you will meet the definition from the moment you are diagnosed.
This also applies if you have a condition that fluctuates; for example, if you have a chronic pain condition that gets better and worse over time, you will meet the definition of disability as long as the effects are likely to continue for at least a year.
Scotland
In Scotland, you will be eligible if you 'have extra costs because of your impairment'. The Student Awards Agency for Scotland, which arranges DSA support for students, recommends contacting a disability adviser at your college or university to talk through your situation and whether you will be eligible.
The Channel Islands
In the Channel Islands, guidance states that DSA support may be available for students with a disability or specific learning difference. Both the Island of Jersey and States of Guernsey recommend getting in contact with the student finance team to discuss your specific circumstances and find out if you may be eligible:
The Isle of Man
In the Isle of Man, you will be eligible for DSA support if you can show evidence that you will incur substantial extra costs at university because of the barriers you face related to your disability. This includes physical and mental health conditions, and specific learning differences. Find out more about DSA in the Isle of Man.