Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 11 December 2025
232. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science ask the Minister his views on the need to create a student finance model that would provide interest free loans to students that do not qualify for SUSI grants, to support the associated costs of attending third level education; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [66812/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the deputy will be aware, the Funding the Future framework, as approved in 2022, sets out a multifunded model for sustainable higher education system funding. Through the policy, student loans have been ruled out as an approach to funding higher education. Instead, funding of the higher education system will be through a mixed model, comprising funding streams from the Exchequer, employer contributions and student contributions.
The policy also considered the need to address cost as a barrier to higher education, and it was determined that options to improve the student support framework should considered through the Estimates process, including in respect of reductions to the student contribution and enhancements to the SUSI grant.
In considering this position it is important to note that most full-time undergraduate students in publicly funded institutions do not pay tuition fees. The State pays these fees directly to colleges under the Free Fees Initiative with students paying a Student Contribution Charge. As part of Budget 2026 we permanently reduced this charge from €3,000 to €2,500 per year.
Separately, students may be able to avail of funding supports through SUSI, including student contribution supports, tuition fee supports, and maintenance supports. In line with the Funding the Future policy framework, SUSI maintenance grants and income thresholds have been increased while postgraduate supports have been restored and improved.
Additional supports that may be available for students include, hardship funds, disability supports, and targeted bursaries. Further details of these supports can be obtained from the access office in the institution attended.
Looking ahead it is important that we continue to make the right interventions in the area of access. As part of the annual Budget process, I will consider all options available to me to reduce the cost of education for students and their families.
