We have provided some answers to frequently asked questions about DSA Needs Assessments below, but if your question isn’t here, feel free to get in touch.
What is a DSA Needs Assessment?
A DSA needs assessments involves a relaxed chat with an experienced DSA needs assessor . They will listen to your difficulties and make sure that the appropriate support is in place to support you in your studies. DSA support can include specialist equipment, non-medical helper (‘human’) support, travel allowance or other general support. The assessment will last 1.5-2 hours.
When should I apply for a DSA needs assessment?
You should apply for a DSA needs assessment as soon as possible. You do not have to wait for a confirmed place at university of college. You can also apply for a DSA needs assessment while you are studying for the course.
Can I upgrade my equipment?
Yes. For example, if you have been recommended a Windows laptop but would like a MacBook, you can upgrade this with the DSA approved equipment supplier and pay the difference in cost.
How do I arrange my support from the DSA needs assessment?
A few weeks after your DSA needs assessment, you will receive your agreement letter from your funding body. It will contain contact details of your equipment provider and non-medical helper support. Contact them to arrange support. If you need any help with this, please let us know.
What happens if I need additional support after my DSA needs assessment?
We will support you for the duration of your course. If you have any queries or are aware of any additional support you require at a later stage, get in touch and we will try our best to accommodate this.
Do I need to reapply for a DSA needs assessment?
In the majority of circumstances, no. However, you might need to reapply for the DSA needs assessment if you:-
- Didn’t take out a Maintenance Loan or Tuition Fee Loan
- Change your course
- Change from full-time to part-time study, or from part-time to full-time
- Have suspended your studies and this has changed your course end date
- Withdrew from your course and are returning to study
- Are repeating a year of study
If you are unsure, we advise that you talk to your funding body.
Can I have my DSA needs assessment at home or an alternative venue?
Currently, we are able to offer online DSA needs assessments via video calling platforms such as Microsoft Teams or Zoom. If you are unable to attend your DSA needs assessment at our centre because of your medical condition, we might be able to conduct your DSA needs assessment at home or an alternative venue.
Do I have pay for a DSA needs assessment?
English (not Welsh, Scottish or NI) students are asked by their funding body to contribute the first £200 towards a computer/laptop recommendation. Some universities/colleges may be able to provide some financial assistance with this.
If you are recommended travel support you may be required to contribute a small amount towards the costs.
Do I have to pay for the DSA needs assessment?
No. The assessment is covered through your Disabled Students’ Allowance.
What do they ask in a DSA needs assessment?
In a DSA needs assessment the assessor will ask about carrying out research for assignments writing essays taking notes revising for exams undertaking practical work getting around university or college and more. The second part of the DSA needs assessment will be a chance to evaluate different types of support.
How long do DSA needs assessments last?
The DSA needs assessment will last 1.5-2 hours.
