DSA for Healthcare Students
2026/27 Support Guide
For the 2026 to 2027 academic year, eligible undergraduate and postgraduate healthcare students can receive up to £27,783 in Disabled Students’ Allowance support. This independent guide explains how to access funding for specialist equipment, non-medical helper support, and clinical placement travel.
Disclaimer: This is an independent resource from Calling All Minds. Not an official NHS or government resource.
Updated: June 2026
DSA Eligibility and Support Categories
Eligibility
- You must be disabled, neurodiverse, have a learning difference, or long-term health condition (including long-term effects of COVID-19 and/or mental health condition)
- You must be studying on an eligible higher education course
- You must be studying at an eligible institution in England
- You must be eligible for student finance
- The support must be directly related to your studies
"DSA and the NHS Learning Support Fund are different. You may be eligible for both."
Specialist Equipment
Computer hardware, software, and other equipment
Non-Medical Helper Support
Human support to help with your studies
General Allowance
Other disability-related study costs
Travel Allowance
Additional travel costs due to your disability
DSA Funding Calculator 2026/27
Healthcare Student DSA FAQs
How much DSA can I get in 2026?
For the 2026 to 2027 academic year, eligible undergraduate and postgraduate students can receive up to £27,783 in Disabled Students’ Allowance support. This can help pay for specialist equipment, non-medical helper support, disability-related travel and other study-related support.
Can I get DSA for clinical placements?
Yes, DSA can support disability-related study needs connected to placements. This may include assistive technology, specialist mentoring, note-taking support, additional travel costs or equipment needed to take part in placement learning.
Is DSA paid directly to me?
Usually, DSA is not paid directly into your bank account. It is normally arranged to pay approved suppliers or support providers for the specific equipment, software, training or human support recommended after your needs assessment.
Will DSA affect my fitness to practise?
No. Receiving DSA support will not affect your fitness to practise. Professional bodies like the GMC, NMC, and HCPC recognize that reasonable adjustments enable safe, effective practice. DSA provides tools to help you meet professional standards.