Student leaders have voiced concern about government cuts to an allowance for disabled students, saying those suffering from dyslexia will be among those to be hit.

Ministers announced changes to the disabled students’ allowance (DSA), which provides financial support for the purchase of laptops and specialist equipment, provision of support workers and help with additional travel costs.

Universities Minister David Willetts said the government would pay for higher-specification or higher-cost computers needed by students because of their disability, but would no longer splash out for standard computers, warranties or insurance.

National Union of Students disabled students’ officer Hannah Paterson said: “The prospect of deeply unfair cuts to support for disabled students should concern us all.

“We already know that disabled students are under greater financial strain than others.

“It is arrogant and out of touch to assume that disabled students can access ‘basic’ equipment or that universities will accept the new responsibilities ministers are seeking to place on them.”