You've had your DSA2 letter. Here's what happens next.
It's completely normal to feel unsure at this point. This page walks you through arranging your support, applying for DSAs, and booking your Study Needs Assessment — one step at a time.
Arranging your support
Once your support has been recommended, getting started with Beacon takes just a few steps.
- 1
Your DSA2 letter arrives
This confirms the support your funding body has agreed — for example specialist study skills, mentoring or assistive technology training.
- 2
Get in touch with Beacon
Contact us directly, or ask for Beacon by name. We'll confirm what's been allocated and answer any questions — there's no such thing as a silly one.
- 3
We match you with a specialist
We pair you with a support worker who understands your subject and your needs — including Welsh-speaking staff where you'd prefer them.
- 4
Your sessions begin
We always offer support face-to-face. Flexible options such as online sessions are available too, but we'll never leave you without the choice of in-person support.
The support you can expect
Specialist study skills
Practical strategies for planning, writing, reading and revision — shaped around how you learn.
Specialist mentoring
Regular, focused support to help you stay on track academically and manage the demands of study.
Assistive technology training
Get confident with the software and tools funded by your DSAs, tailored to your course.
ADHD-tailored support
A dedicated approach developed in-house for students with ADHD, including Brain-in-Hand where allocated.
Haven't applied for DSAs yet?
Disabled Students' Allowances help cover the extra study costs you may have as a direct result of a disability, long-term health condition, mental-health condition or specific learning difference. You apply through your funding body — you don't need a formal diagnosis to start the conversation.
In short, you'll usually:
- Apply to your funding body (Student Finance, the NHS, or another provider).
- Provide evidence of your condition.
- Attend a Study Needs Assessment (this is not a test).
- Receive your DSA2 letter confirming your support.
Your Study Needs Assessment
A Study Needs Assessment is a relaxed, informal conversation — not an exam, and nothing to revise for. You'll talk through your course, the barriers you face, and the kinds of support that would help. The assessor then recommends what your DSAs should fund.
It usually lasts around an hour, and can take place in person or online — whichever feels more comfortable for you.
Still have questions?
We've answered the questions students ask us most — from timescales to what happens if you change course.
Ready to arrange your support?
Get in touch and we'll take it from here — at your pace, in plain English.