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DSA Laptop

I have just had my report recommending a new laptop sent to SFE. I’ve been told the approval might take three weeks or longer.

Is it worth getting a DSA Laptop?

Reply 1

Chronoscope

Volunteer Section Leader

Original post by ailishewhite

I have just had my report recommending a new laptop sent to SFE. I’ve been told the approval might take three weeks or longer.

Is it worth getting a DSA Laptop?

Did your report say who the supplier was? :smile:

You should be able to see the standard model they provide on their website (if its Barry Bennett, I'm not sure about other DSA suppliers). You can usually upgrade the laptop or purchase elsewhere (the process might be more complicated if you choose to purchase elsewhere, but it might be cheaper).

I found my DSA laptop really useful - I decided to upgrade to a 2 in 1 convertible which was useful for notetaking. It also helped it was an 'upgrade' from my old laptop which was about 5 years old that point.

(edited 1 month ago)

Reply 2

TK-Moss

Original post by ailishewhite

I have just had my report recommending a new laptop sent to SFE. I’ve been told the approval might take three weeks or longer.
Is it worth getting a DSA Laptop?

I have a DSA laptop, actually just got it and i think its worth it. I now have a personal laptop and my university laptop (The DSA one). You can choose to upgrade it to a different laptop, though mac or HP is usually reccommended because its faster and better equipped for university than a chromebook. I didn't upgrade mine because im already short on money as it is.

Reply 3

Arden University

Official Rep

Original post by ailishewhite

I have just had my report recommending a new laptop sent to SFE. I’ve been told the approval might take three weeks or longer.
Is it worth getting a DSA Laptop?

@ailishewhite

I work as a H.E support officer (and teacher) so I can give a few tips.

It is worth getting a laptop through DSA, especially if you have
a) been allocated certain specialist software which might be difficult or expensive to obtain yourself
b) not familiar with using a laptop, as usually there is 3 hours or so of training allocated to you on how to use it

If anyone is reading the thread and wonders what the financial contribution is, it is usually £200 towards the laptop.

Larger Universities may provide you with additional support aside from what you get through DSA, but they do not have too, they only need to demonstrate a 'reasonable adjustment' under the Equality Act 2010 and Children and Families Act 2014, so that might be 25% extra time on exams for instance.

HE institutions often have bursaries not advertised to help you to pay for things, its worth a quick drop in to student services to check

Marc
Arden University Student Ambassador

Reply 4

ailishewhite

Thank you so much Marc!! I just received the DSA2 Letter confirming I am getting a laptop. I am not sure what make or model it'll be but I am relieved! Thank you again.

Reply 5

ailishewhite

Original post by TK-Moss

That's so good to hear, I am so glad it's worth it, I think I am going to go for it!! Thank you.

Reply 6

Arden University

Official Rep

Original post by ailishewhite

Thank you so much Marc!! I just received the DSA2 Letter confirming I am getting a laptop. I am not sure what make or model it'll be but I am relieved! Thank you again.