Funded Support Explained: Get the Tech & Help You Need!
Uni life is full-on, and if you’ve got a disability, long-term physical or mental health condition, learning difficulty or neurodiversity, getting the right support can make all the difference. The good news? There’s funding available to help cover study-related costs – and it won’t cost you a penny.
If you’re in the UK, you can apply for Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA), and if you’re in the Republic of Ireland, there’s the Fund for Students with Disabilities (FSD). Both provide support tailored to your needs, whether that’s one-to-one tuition, specialist mentoring, or getting the right tech to keep you on track.
What Does Funded Support Cover?
Depending on what you need, you could get help with:
- A Laptop & Assistive Tech – If your condition affects your ability to study, funding can provide a laptop (if you need one) and essential software like:
- ClaroRead – A text-to-speech tool with additional visual tools like screen tinting.
- Glean – An advanced note-taking tool that records and organises lecture audio for easy review.
- Medincle – A medical spellchecker designed for students studying healthcare-related subjects.
- PresentPal – A speech support tool for students with anxiety or communication difficulties when delivering presentations.
- Equatio – Digital maths tools for students with dyscalculia or visual impairments.
- One-to-One Support – This could be a study skills tutor (for help with organisation and academic writing), a specialist mentor (for mental health support), or a note-taker if you struggle to keep up in lectures.
- Consumables – Need printer ink, paper, or other essentials? You might be able to claim for those too.
- Ergonomic Equipment – If you have a physical condition that makes studying uncomfortable, you may be eligible for adjustable desks, specialist chairs, or alternative keyboards and mice.
- Travel Costs – If using public transport isn’t an option due to your disability, funding can help with extra travel expenses.
What is DSA? (UK Students)
DSA (Disabled Students’ Allowance) is a non-repayable grant that covers extra study costs linked to a disability, mental health condition, or specific learning difficulty. It’s not based on household income, and you don’t have to pay it back.
Who Can Get DSA?
- You’re a UK student in higher education.
- You have medical evidence (like a doctor’s letter or an educational psychologist’s report).
How Do I Apply?
- Fill in the Form – Get the DSA1 application form from your funding body’s website: (Please note that if you are a Nursing student in receipt of a bursary, please speak to your Disability Officer to apply)
- Send Your Evidence – Upload your medical evidence when you apply.
- Book a Needs Assessment – Once approved, you’ll have a chat with an assessor to figure out what support works best for you.
For a detailed walkthrough of the application process, visit Queen’s University’s Needs Assessment Centre.
What is FSD? (ROI Students)
If you’re a student from the Republic of Ireland (ROI), you might qualify for the Fund for Students with Disabilities (FSD). Like DSA, it covers study-related costs if you have a disability or long-term health condition.
Who Can Get FSD?
- You’re studying at a higher education institution in Ireland or Northern Ireland.
- You provide medical evidence of your disability.
How do I apply for FSD:
- Your university applies on your behalf. The Needs Assessment Centre can guide you through the process.
- You’ll have an assessment to determine the support you need.
- Funding is arranged for you based on the assessment.
For full details, visit the FSD information page.
What If I’m Not Eligible for DSA or FSD?
If you don’t qualify for DSA or FSD, Queen’s University offers other support options:
- Free Assistive Tech – Everyone at QUB has access to screen readers, mind-mapping tools, productivity apps, and more. Check out the Guides to Free and Licensed Software for more information.
- Library Support – Need help accessing books? McClay Library offers book retrieval, extended loans, and assistive tech stations. Find out more on the Library Services for Students with Disabilities.
- Wellbeing Services – Free mental health support, counselling, and drop-in sessions. See Student Wellbeing Service for more information.
- Exam Adjustments – Extra time, rest breaks, or alternative arrangements can be arranged via the Accessible Learning Support team.
- ALS Support & Guidance – The Accessible Learning Support team provides advice and alternative support options for students who may not qualify for DSA.
- Careers & Employability Support – Specialist career advice for disabled students to help you plan for life after uni – Careers, Employability & Skills Service.
Got Questions? We’re Here to Help!
Applying for funded support can take time, so start early to make sure everything’s in place for your studies. If you need guidance, the Needs Assessment Centre is here to help.
Remember, applying for DSA and FSD can take some time, so it’s best to start early to ensure support is in place for your studies.
For more details, check out the DSA Equipment & Support Guide or contact the Assistive Technology Coordinator