The cost of a third-level education is considerable. Parents may be torn between wanting to do the best for their son or daughter and keeping a firm rein on the family and household finances. Students too may be concerned about the financial burden.
Seeking the advice of friends or relations that have been through the college experience is invaluable at this stage. However, practical planning, a realistic budget, foresight, and common sense are also important.
SUSI
SUSI (Student Universal Support Ireland) is the single grant awarding authority for all Further Education (PLC) and Higher Education (Undergraduate) courses in the country. Eligibility for a grant is calculated on the basis of family income. Several other factors are taken into account and the system is designed to be as fair as possible.
Students can check if they are eligible for a grant using the SUSI eligibility reckoner available here. If eligible, application for the grant is through SUSI.
For more information click here.
Student Assistance Fund (administered by individual colleges and may cover cost of academic books or cost of living, usually for a limited period of time)
Student Finance NI - For students intending studying in Northern Ireland, there is a Student Loan system in place where students can apply for a loan to cover the cost of fees. These loans are not means tested and students do not have to begin paying back until after their degree, when they are in employment and earning over a particular amount. More information can be found at www.studentfinanceni.co.uk
Fund for Students with Disabilities – If you have a disability (learning and/or physical), contact the disability support service in the relevant college for more details and possible supports.
There is also more detailed information on 3rd level funding supports on www.studentfinance.ie
Scholarships
Scholarships are a great way of accessing funding to help manage the costs of Higher Education. There are many scholarships available at third-level institutions around the country. These include, but are not limited to, academic, sports, performing arts, and equality opportunities scholarships.
To see the full list of scholarships available, try our scholarship search engine here.
In the section below we address some of the questions parents and students often ask at this time. See also Grants & Finance.
This story is repeated in our Leaving Cert, What's Next Guide here, you can also find a number of useful FAQ's!