Applying for the Student Enablement Fund
The Student Enablement Fund (SEF) has replaced the Disability Bursary to provide financial support for disabled students whose study-related needs are not fully covered by the Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) or other disability funding.
On this page, you can find out who can apply, what the fund can cover, and how to apply.
What the fund covers
In line with the College’s Access and Participation Plan, the SEF helps remove barriers to learning and supports an inclusive student experience. Funding of up to £2,000 may be awarded based on your individual circumstances, and you can apply in each year of your course.
Funding may support:
- Specialist equipment or software not funded through the DSA
- Study-related travel or access costs linked to your disability
- Additional learning resources
- Disability-related academic support
Who can apply
You may be eligible if:
- You are enrolled on a Foundation or Undergraduate course at Regent College London (RCL)
- You are a Home (UK) student
- You have formally declared a disability to RCL
- You are actively engaged in your studies
We understand that some students may feel unsure about disclosing a disability, whether that’s a physical disability, specific learning difference, long-term health condition, or a progressive condition. All applications are handled confidentially and sensitively.
How to apply
Applications must be submitted through the Student Enablement Fund form, along with your supporting evidence. If you need help completing the form or understanding the evidence requirements, you can contact the Wellbeing and Disability team at wellbeing@rcl.ac.uk before filling out your application.
Step 1: Declare your disability
You must have formally disclosed your disability to RCL. If you have not yet done this, contact the Wellbeing and Disability team to discuss your needs, reasonable adjustments, and your eligibility to apply to the SEF.
Step 2: Gather your supporting evidence
Before completing the form, ensure you have the required documents ready to upload.
You will need:
- A letter from your GP (doctor) or medical professional
- Your RCL Support Plan
- Your Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) report
Providing complete and accurate evidence will help us process your application more quickly.
Step 3: Submit your application
Complete the Student Enablement Fund application form and upload your supporting evidence for review by the Finance team.
Questions and answers
Applications are reviewed by the Regent College Student Support Panel within two weeks of submission. You will receive a decision via your college email within three weeks. The fund operates on a rolling basis, but we strongly recommend applying early in the academic year.
Where possible, payments are made directly to the supplier of goods or services. If this is not possible, you may be reimbursed after providing valid receipts. The fund is limited and awarded at the College’s discretion. Receiving funding in one year does not guarantee funding in future years.
If your application is declined, you have the right to appeal if you believe the decision was incorrect based on your original evidence, or you have new, relevant evidence that may affect the outcome. Contact bursariesandfunds@rcl.ac.uk within 10 working days of receiving your decision. You will receive an outcome within 10 working days.
Support and further information
If you need help with your application or want to discuss your support options, contact wellbeing@rcl.ac.uk.
