Michael Creed
Question:453 Mr. Creed asked the Minister for Education and Science the assistance which is available for persons pursuing postgraduate studies in the USA; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4575/02]
Written Answers. - Student Support Schemes.
The financial assistance available under the third level student support schemes, operated under the aegis of my Department, does not extend to those students pursuing postgraduate study outside Ireland.
Section 21 of the Finance Act, 2000, as amended by section 29 of the Finance Act, 2001, provides for the introduction of tax relief for postgraduate tuition fees paid in colleges outside of the EU. This relief, which is available from the tax year 2000-01 onwards, will apply at the standard rate of tax. Further details and conditions in relation to this tax relief are available from local tax offices.
The Ireland-United States Commission for Educational Exchange – Fulbright Commission – awards a limited number of scholarships and fellowships annually in respect of postgraduate studies in the United States. The commission can be contacted at 79 St. Stephens Green, Dublin 2.