Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 16 February 2017
136. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Skills if back to education allowance or higher education grant is available to a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8029/17]
View answerThe decision on eligibility for a student grant is a matter for the relevant grant awarding authority.
The Deputy will appreciate that in the absence of all of the relevant details that would be contained in an individual's application form, including those relating to nationality, residency, previous academic attainment and means, it would not be possible for me to say whether or not a student would qualify for a grant.
In general terms, eligible candidates may receive funding provided they are attending an approved course at an approved institution as defined in the scheme.
It is anticipated that the SUSI online application process for the 2017/18 academic year will open in early April. Prospective students are advised to apply early so that their application can be queued and assessed early in the assessment process.
Separately, the Deputy will be aware that the Back to Education Allowance (BTEA) is administered by the Department of Social Protection. Further enquiries in respect of the BTEA should be referred to the Department of Social Protection.
