Disable Students' Allowance (DSA) Assessment
A Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) Assessment explores the equipment, software, one-to-one support and other associated study support you may be eligible for at university.
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We have two expert assessors with different availability to suit your schedule. If you cannot see a date that is suitable with one assessor, be sure to check the next assessor’s calendar.
Expert Assessments
At Bespoke Support Assessments, we specialise in providing expert assessments that are accurate, thorough, and tailored to your needs. Our small team of highly qualified professionals use the latest tools and methodologies to deliver precise assessments, ensuring you receive the support and adjustments necessary to succeed.
Personalised Approach
Bespoke Support Assessments takes pride in its personalised approach to assessments. We understand that every individual and organisation is unique, which is why we customise our assessment services to meet your particular requirements. Our dedicated team works closely with you to understand your needs and goals, delivering tailored assessments that provide practical solutions.
Accuracy & Reliability
Accuracy and reliability are the cornerstones of Bespoke Support Assessments services. Our rigorous assessment processes are designed to provide you with precise and dependable results. With years of experience and a commitment to excellence, we ensure that every assessment is conducted with the highest standards of quality and integrity.
Frequently Asked Questions
A DSA Study Needs Assessment is an in-depth evaluation that helps identify the equipment, software, one-to-one support, and more that a student with a disability may need to succeed in higher education. It’s part of the Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) process and aims to tailor recommendations to meet individual learning needs.
Students in higher education who have applied for DSA and have a disability, long-term health condition, mental health condition, or specific learning difficulty (such as dyslexia) are eligible. This includes students studying full-time and part-time and those taking distance-learning courses.
A trained specialist assessor will discuss your course requirements and potential difficulties during the assessment. The conversation focuses on identifying areas where you may need extra support, such as specialist equipment and software, one-to-one support, and more. It usually takes about 1-2 hours and can be conducted remotely by phone or Zoom.
No, the assessment is not a test or an exam. It’s a collaborative conversation where the assessor works with you to understand your difficulties and recommend suitable adjustments, resources, or support services that can help.
It’s helpful to bring:
- Any additional medical evidence or diagnostic reports you may have.
- A list of difficulties you experience in your studies, including specific tasks like writing essays or reading for long periods.
- Any ideas of support you think could help (e.g., assistive technology).
The recommendations made after a Study Needs Assessment can include:
- Specialist equipment, such as a laptop or other assistive technology.
- Non-medical helpers, such as a mentor or study skills tutor.
- Assistive software, including programs for mind mapping, speech-to-text, or reading software.
- Adjustments, like extra time for exams or alternative formats for reading materials.
Typically, you’ll receive the report within 5 working days after the assessment. The report will outline all the recommendations, equipment, and support discussed during the session.
The cost of the assessment itself is covered by your funding body, so students are not required to pay for it. However, you must have been approved for DSA before you book the assessment. Your university can help with this process if you have not yet applied.
Once your DSA application has been approved, you will be told by the university team to book a Study Needs Assessment. You can book an assessment by clicking ‘DSA Assessment’ from the drop-down or by clicking ‘Book My Slot’ from the home page.
After the assessment, you’ll receive a detailed report that outlines the recommended support. The report will be sent to you and your university. It may also be sent to your funding body if they are separate from the university. Once the recommendations are approved, your funding body will arrange for the recommended equipment and services to be provided.
If you find that the recommendations in your report are not helping or suitable for your needs, you can request a review or a follow-up assessment. Your assessor will work with you to ensure the support provided is practical and tailored to your specific needs.
The assessment helps ensure you have the appropriate support and resources to successfully navigate your studies. By understanding your unique needs, the assessor can recommend tools and strategies to help you work more efficiently, participate fully in your education, and overcome barriers to learning.