The decision on eligibility for a student grant is a matter, in the first instance, for the centralised student grant awarding authority SUSI (Student Universal Support Ireland) to determine.
The Student Grant Scheme does not stipulate precisely how the awarding authority (SUSI) satisfies itself in respect of proof of residence.
For SUSI to be satisfied that an applicant meets the criteria to be classed as an independent student, documentary evidence of their independent residence is requested, and an indicative list of accepted documents is sent to the applicant.
Although utility bills are one form of documentation accepted to confirm independent residency, if an applicant is unable to submit these in their own name demonstrating their independence, they can submit one or more of the following documents.
• A letter confirming that the address is registered with Residential Tenancies Board (RTB).
• A Local Authority lease agreement or a letter confirming the applicant’s rental under the Rental Accommodation Scheme (RAS) or any Government housing scheme/arrangement. Private housing lease agreements will not be accepted.
• A letter on headed paper from a Rental Agency confirming the applicant’s tenancy.
• A letter confirming the receipt and period of Rent Allowance, Mortgage Interest Supplement or Housing Assistance Payment (HAP).
• Official documentation posted to the applicant at this address and relating to an applicant’s residence there.
Like private lease agreements, signed licence agreements between a student and a homeowner would not be accepted as evidence of independent residence.
If an applicant is unable to provide evidence of independent residence and their application is refused, they have the right to appeal this decision in accordance with Section 20(2) of the Student Support Act 2011. The Appeals Officer will review the application and may ask for further information, for example proof of the student’s parents’ address (with the parents’ consent) and proof of the student’s address to demonstrate that both parties are living separately.
If a student is dissatisfied with the determination of the SUSI Appeals Officer, they can further appeal to the independent Student Grants Appeals Board within the required timeframe (i.e. not later than 30 days after the notification of the determination of the appeals officer to the applicant).
Such appeals can be made by the appellant online via www.studentgrantappeals.ie
