Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 July 2025
120. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science to outline the targeted supports he intends to give to families for the upcoming college year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37437/25]
View answerI am very conscious of the financial challenges facing students and the need for the progressive implementation of measures to address costs as a barrier to education. I am committed to easing this burden for students and their families in a financially sustainable way.
In financial terms, the main support available for students attending full time higher education is the Student Grant Scheme.
From September 2025, all income thresholds under the Student Grant Scheme will increase. The income threshold for the special rate of maintenance is increasing in line with Social Welfare increases and all other income thresholds are increasing by at least 15%.
Following these recent revisions, the income threshold to receive a Student Contribution grant now stands at €115,000 which is the highest it has ever been. This means that students who were not eligible previously may now qualify for a Student Contribution Grant. SUSI is now open for applications, and I would encourage students to check out SUSI’s website www.susi.ie to see if they are eligible for support.
The Programme for Government commits to reducing the student contribution in a financially sustainable manner, over the lifetime of this Government. I fully intend to progress this, starting from the base figure of €3,000 and advancing measures to reduce that over time in a way that is equitable, funded and fair and less reliant on temporary subventions which, whilst providing welcome relief, remain uncertain from year to year.
While I cannot confirm specific items that will be included in the next Budget, I can assure the Deputy that options to support students and reduce financial barriers will be a key consideration for me as part of Budget negotiations.
