I already have a DSA (Disabled Student Allowance) award but I need some extra help or to have my award updated – what do I have to do?

If you already have a DSA award but require additional support or need to update your award, follow these steps:

1. Contact Your Funding Body
   • Get in touch with your funding body (like Student Finance England, SAAS, Student Finance Wales, or Student Finance Northern Ireland) to explain what extra support you need
   • They will guide you through the process of reviewing or updating your current award.
2. Request an Updated Needs Assessment
   • If your situation has changed (such as your condition has worsened, or you need new equipment), you may need an updated DSA Needs Assessment
   • Your funding body will arrange this with an assessment provider. You’ll receive details on how to book the assessment.
3. Submit Evidence
   • You may need to provide new medical or diagnostic evidence to support your request for additional support or equipment. This could include updated letters from your doctor, specialist, or a new diagnostic report.
4. Review and Confirmation
   • After your updated Needs Assessment, your funding body will review the recommendations and confirm what support will be provided.

Need Help?

Our University’s disability support team can help with your application and answer any questions. You can:

• Attend a DSA drop-in session – ASSIST runs DSA-focused drop-ins every Wednesday in LH009 behind SID from 11:00-13:00 and 13:30-15:30
• Contact us at assist@northampton.ac.uk or visit the Disabled Student Allowance page for more information.