30/05/2026
Going to University with Dyslexia? Here's the Support Available to You
Starting university is an exciting step, but if you have dyslexia, you may be wondering what support is available and how you'll manage the demands of higher education. The good news is that you don't have to navigate university alone.
There is a wide range of support available to help students with dyslexia succeed, including funding through the Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA), specialist study support, assistive technology, and reasonable adjustments to assessments and exams.
Continuing Your Access Arrangements at University
If you received access arrangements at school or college, such as:
25% extra time in exams
Use of a laptop
A reader or scribe
Rest breaks during assessments
you will usually need a full diagnostic assessment of dyslexia to continue receiving these adjustments at university.
Having an up-to-date assessment ensures that universities can put the appropriate support in place and helps you access additional funding through the DSA.
Who Can Apply for Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA)?
You may be eligible for DSA if you have a diagnosed Specific Learning Difficulty (SpLD), such as dyslexia, that has a substantial impact on your studies.
DSA is designed to help cover the additional costs you may face as a result of your disability or learning difficulty. Unlike a student loan, DSA does not need to be repaid.
How to Apply for DSA
1. Arrange a Full Diagnostic Assessment
A diagnostic assessment provides a detailed understanding of your learning profile, identifying both your strengths and areas where additional support may be beneficial.
The assessment report can be used to:
Apply for Disabled Students' Allowance
Access university support services
Continue exam access arrangements
Receive appropriate academic support
We recommend arranging your assessment as early as possible, ideally before starting university.
2. Submit Your DSA Application
Once you have your diagnostic report, you can apply through Student Finance England as part of your student finance application.
After your application is reviewed, you may be invited to attend a Needs Assessment to determine what support and equipment would benefit you most during your studies.
What Can DSA Help Pay For?
Depending on your individual needs, DSA may fund a range of support, including:
Assistive Technology and Equipment
Specialist software
Text-to-speech programs
Speech recognition software
Digital learning tools
Computer equipment where appropriate
Specialist Study Support
One-to-one specialist dyslexia tuition
Academic skills support
Learning strategy development
Organisational and study skills coaching
Additional Study Costs
Printing and photocopying
Course-related expenses linked to your disability
Additional resources needed to support your learning
Travel Costs
Where a disability makes public transport difficult or inaccessible, DSA may contribute towards additional travel expenses.
How Much Funding Is Available?
The amount awarded depends on your individual circumstances and recommendations from your Needs Assessment.
Funding can cover:
Specialist equipment and software
Non-medical helper support
Specialist study skills tuition
Additional disability-related study costs
The support package is tailored to your specific needs, ensuring you receive the most effective assistance throughout your course.
Dyslexia Assessments with Dyslexia Support Consultancy
If you're unsure whether you have dyslexia, or you need an updated assessment for university, we're here to help.
At Dyslexia Support Consultancy, we provide professional, comprehensive dyslexia assessments in a friendly and supportive environment. Our assessments identify your individual strengths and challenges and provide clear recommendations for support.
You'll receive a detailed report that can be used to:
Apply for Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA)
Access university support services
Arrange reasonable adjustments
Understand your learning profile and strengths
Most importantly, you'll gain clarity, confidence, and a clear pathway to the support you deserve.
Additional Support Beyond DSA
While DSA provides valuable assistance, it is only one part of the support available to students with dyslexia.
Many universities also offer:
Disability support services
Learning support teams
Academic skills workshops
Study skills sessions
Wellbeing and mental health support
There are also excellent dyslexia charities and organisations that provide advice, resources, and ongoing guidance throughout your studies.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Whether you're preparing for university or already studying, obtaining the right assessment and support can make a significant difference to your confidence and academic success.
Contact Dyslexia Support Consultancy today to find out more about our dyslexia assessments and how we can help you access the support you need to thrive at university.
Remember: dyslexia does not define your potential. With the right support, tools, and strategies in place, you can achieve your goals and make the most of your university experience.
