Important update
The DSA Computer Equipment Grant will open for applications on 26th October 2026 for the 2026/2027 academic year.
- What is the DSA Computer Equipment Grant??
- Who can apply?
- How do I apply?
- What evidence do I need?
- When can I apply?
- How long does a decision take?
- How will I receive my payment?
What is the DSA Computer Equipment Grant?
Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA) helps students with study-related costs arising from a disability, long-term health condition or mental health condition.
If your DSA2 Letter of Entitlement recommends a computer, laptop or other equipment, you can apply for a one-off, non-repayable grant of £200 towards the cost.
Please note:
- You can only receive this grant once during your studies at the University of Hertfordshire.
- Funding is limited.
- Applications are assessed on a first-come, first-served basis.
Who can apply?
To be eligible, you must:
- Be a current University of Hertfordshire student
- Have a DSA2 Letter of Entitlement
- Have a recommendation for a computer, laptop or equipment in your DSA2 letter
Full eligibility details are available in the DSA Computer Equipment Grant 26/27.
If you are unsure whether you are eligible, contact:
How do I apply?
When the fund is open:
- Register with Blackbullion using your University email address.
- Complete and submit your application through the platform.
Blackbullion also provides financial wellbeing resources, including guidance on budgeting and money management.
If you need support with your application, contact the Student Funding and Financial Support team:
What evidence do I need?
You only need to provide:
- Your DSA2 Letter of Entitlement showing the recommended equipment
When can I apply?
For the 2026/2027 academic year, the application periods are:
Autumn term
26 October 2026 (10:00) to 11 December 2026 (16:00)
Spring and summer terms
14 January 2027 (09:00) to 14 May 2027 (16:00)
Applications may close earlier if all funding is allocated. Once the fund closes, it will not reopen until the next academic year.
How long does a decision take?
Applications can take up to four working weeks to be assessed once all required evidence has been received
How will I receive my payment?
If your application is successful:
Successful applicants will be notified via Blackbullion.
Awards will normally be paid through our partner Aspire.
Within 5-7 working days of receiving the decision notice via BB, successful applicants will receive a separate email from our payment disbursement partner info@herts-Aspire.co.uk. This will be sent to the email address registered on your student record.
You must:
• Follow the instructions in the email using the secure link to set up your Herts Aspire account and provide your bank details.
• Students must ensure their bank details are accurate and respond promptly to Aspire's communication to avoid delays. Aspire or the University accepts no liability if your bank details are incorrect or not up to date.
• Withdraw funds into your bank account by the 14 May 2027 deadline provided. Payments will be made by BACS transfer into the nominated bank account.
If you experience issues accessing the Aspire platform to register your account, submitting your bank details or withdrawing your funds you will need to contact the team at Aspire by emailing info@herts-aspire.co.uk for further assistance.
Important: Bank details must be submitted by 14 May 2027. Payments cannot be made after this date.