Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 5 February 2025
644. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Social Protection if a student (details supplied) who is studying abroad in an exchange programme which is an integral part of their undergraduate degree but not part of an EU exchange, is eligible for the back to education allowance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2310/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraDisability Allowance (DA) is a weekly allowance paid to people with a specified disability who are aged 16 or over and under the age of 66. This disability must be expected to last for at least one year and the allowance is subject to a medical assessment, a means test and the habitual residency conditions.
Persons in receipt of DA can return to education and training. They have the option of applying for back to education allowance (BTEA) while attending their course. The normal conditions of DA apply while the claimant is in full time education. DA is not payable for any period in respect if which the claimant is resident away from the State except where the person is pursuing an approved course of education outside of the State under the BTEA option or an individual is receiving medical treatment which is not available in the State.
Continued payment of DA can remain available under the BTEA option where study abroad is determined an integral part of the course or where the student is undertaking an Erasmus programme.
In order to determine eligibility for BTEA and a continuing eligibility for DA, a completed application form should be submitted by the person concerned. An application form issued to the person concerned on 29 January 2025.
I trust this clarifies the position for the Deputy.
