Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 June 2026
1031. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if she will consider the financial hardship and give favourable consideration towards increasing SUSI grants in respect of two students (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45138/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe main support available to students is the statutory based Student Grant Scheme which is administered by SUSI (Student Universal Support Ireland). Under 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. The decision on eligibility for a student grant is a matter, in the first instance, for the awarding authority, SUSI to determine.
An official from my Department has advised that the first student referred to by the Deputy has been awarded the non-adjacent Special Rate of Maintenance Grant, together with 100% Student Contribution/Tuition Fees, as applicable. This is the highest rate of grant available and cannot be improved on.
The student's sibling referred to by the Deputy has been awarded the Full Non-Adjacent Standard Band 1 Rate of Maintenance Grant, together with 100% Student Contribution/Tuition Fees, as applicable as combined income of student and parent were over the income threshold for the Special rate of Grant.
A letter was sent to the student on 28 April 2026 advising them of the award. However, as advised to the student in the letter from SUSI, when both siblings are registered on their course for the 2026/2027 academic year, this student should immediately request a review of her application, by emailing support@susi.ie and in the subject line insert “Internal review” and attach a letter from sibling's higher education institution confirming that she is registered and attending college. Once confirmed, SUSI can apply the increment, which may improve the rate of grant this student is eligible for.
