Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 24 October 2024
379. Deputy Danny Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science to provide clarification on a college grant (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43692/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraUnder the terms of the Student Grant Scheme, grant assistance is awarded to students attending an approved course in an approved institution who meet the prescribed conditions of funding, including those relating to nationality, residency, previous academic attainment and means.
As per Article 17(4)(b) of the Student Grant Scheme 2024, a student or tuition student is ineligible for grant funding for a course at Level 7 if they already hold an undergraduate higher education and training award at Level 7 on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ), or equivalent. This is irrespective of whether or not a grant was paid previously.
Students in third-level institutions experiencing exceptional financial need can apply for support under the Student Assistance Fund. This Fund assists students, in a sensitive and compassionate manner, who might otherwise be unable to continue their third level studies due to their financial circumstances. Information on the fund is available through the Access Officer in the third level institution attended. This fund is administered on a confidential, discretionary basis.
In addition, tax relief at the standard rate of tax may also be available in respect of tuition fees paid for approved courses at approved colleges of higher education. Further information on this tax relief is available from a student's local Tax Office or from the Revenue Commissioners website, www.revenue.ie/ .
