Jen Cummins
Ceist:49. Deputy Jen Cummins asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science his Department's plans to keep the reduction in student capitation. [14648/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThursday, 27 March 2025
Ceisteanna (49)
Freagraí scríofa
As the Deputy will be aware, students eligible for the Free Fees Initiative have their tuition fees paid by the State, exclusive of the student contribution. Over 143,000 undergraduate students benefit from the scheme each year, at a cost of over €368 million. This universal scheme is paid as a grant on behalf of students without any means testing. Students pay a student contribution of €3,000 per academic year. However, the State pays this contribution, fully or partially, for a significant number of students who qualify for SUSI grant support.
The Programme for Government commits to reducing the student contribution in a financially sustainable manner, over the lifetime of this Government. As part of the cost-of-living packages in the last three budgets, the student contribution was reduced by €1,000, at a net cost of circa €99 million per annum.
My Department is planning to hold the annual cost of education event next month. This event will be attended by students, representatives of the student population, access officers, student services employees, people who work with students on a day-to-day basis, organisations who advocate for underrepresented students in education and policy makers. It will serve as an opportunity for all to have their say on the key cost of education issues.
After the event, I intend to publish an annual options paper, which will identify costs and potential impacts of various policy options aimed at reducing the cost of higher education. This will inform decisions ahead of Budget 2026.
I remain committed to easing the financial burden on students and families in a financially sustainable way.