Can DSA pay for a laptop?
It may recommend a computer if the assessment shows one is needed because of study-related disability needs and the student does not already have a suitable one.
DSA WHAT YOU CAN GET
Disabled Students’ Allowance: What Can I Get?
Disabled Students’ Allowance can help pay for extra study-related support such as equipment, software, non-medical help, travel and training when these are recommended for your needs.
For 2026/27, students in England can receive up to £27,783. The exact support still depends on assessed need, funding route and recommendations.
Study-related support
DSA is for extra study costs linked to disability or health needs, not ordinary student costs.
How much may be available
For 2026/27, students in England can receive up to £27,783. Actual support still depends on assessed need.
Support into practice
Equipment, software and human support work best when connected to real study routines.
Direct answer
What can DSA pay for?
DSA may fund specialist equipment, assistive software, non-medical helper support, disability-related travel and other study support where these are recommended for your course needs.
Common examples include software for reading, writing, planning or note-taking; training to use recommended tools; specialist mentoring; study skills support; ergonomic equipment; and some travel support where public transport is not accessible for the student.
The maximum figure is not an automatic cash payment. It is a ceiling for approved support, and the package depends on what is agreed through the DSA route.
| Question | Simple answer | What it means in practice |
|---|---|---|
| What can DSA fund? | Equipment, software, support, travel and training. | The recommendation has to relate to disability-related study needs. |
| How much is available? | For 2026/27, students in England can receive up to £27,783. | Your actual support depends on assessed need and funding route. |
| Can DSA fund mentoring or study skills? | Yes, where non-medical help is recommended. | Support may include specialist mentoring, study skills support or similar approved help. |
| Can DSA fund a laptop? | Sometimes. | A computer may be recommended if it is needed for disability-related study access. |
Good next step
Focus on the support you will actually use
A long list of recommendations can feel overwhelming. The most useful starting point is the study task that currently costs the most time, energy or confidence.
Students often benefit from joining DSA recommendations with study skills support, specialist mentoring, university adjustments and clear assistive technology training.
Practical checks
- List the study tasks that feel hardest right now.
- Keep your DSA entitlement letter and report easy to find.
- Book training early if software or equipment is recommended.
- Ask for help if you are not sure which supplier or provider to contact.
Student support
Need help turning DSA support into everyday study strategies?
CAM supports students with assistive technology training, mentoring, study skills and practical guidance after DSA recommendations are made.
Useful connected guidance
These pages give more context and connect this guide to practical support.
Assistive Technology TrainingPractical training for DSA-recommended software and study tools.Open guidanceSpecialist MentoringOne-to-one support with routines, confidence and study-related wellbeing.Open guidanceStudy Skills SupportStrategy-based support for planning, writing and independent study.Open guidance
Related insight articles
Further reading from Calling All Minds on this topic.
Questions people often ask
Short answers, written in plain language.
Can DSA pay for mentoring or study skills?
Yes, non-medical help can include specialist mentoring or study skills support where this is recommended for the student’s needs.
Does DSA pay for normal student costs?
No. DSA is for extra study-related costs linked to disability or health needs, not costs that any student would usually have.