Further Education Supports
About Third Level
Third-level education in Ireland can be divided into two sections – Further Education and Training and Higher Education and Training.
Further Education and Training is education and training that takes place after post-primary level education, and before and higher-level education. These courses are called Post-Leaving Cert (PLC) courses. They are referred to as Level 5 or Level 6 courses on the National Qualifications Framework (NFQ). A huge range of PLC courses can be found at the colleges of further education.
Higher Education and Training is mainly provided in universities and in some Further Education Colleges around the country. These courses are at Level 7 or Level 8 on the NFQ, and can go to Level 9 and Level 10.
It is worth keeping in mind that it is possible to take up a place on a PLC course and work your way in to universities - many students, including students with disabilities opt for this approach.
| Information on the full range of PLC and Further Education courses in Ireland can be found here. |
Further Education and Disability
Students must be registered on a full-time Post Leaving Certificate Course (PLC) to avail of supports for Further Education.
Funding is available only for courses at QQI Level 5 and 6. Students should contact the Disability Support Officer or appointed staff member in the college as early as possible to arrange an appointment to discuss his or her specific support requirements. The Disability Support Officer (DSO) or appointed staff member will carry out an Assessment of Needs with the student in order to identify how best to support the student during their time in college.
The DSO will apply for funding on behalf of the student to the Higher Education Authority (HEA). Appropriate documentation must accompany all funding applications. All students With disabilities who are registered on full time courses in Post Leaving Certificate centres can apply for the funding.
The National Learning Network (NLN) /CDETB Disability Support Service (DSS) offers a wide range of supports to students with disabilities.
The NLN has a useful study skills guide available here.
