Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 11 July 2023
873. Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if he can make provision for school leavers with a stamp 4 Visa to get access to third-level education at an affordable price, in order that they will not be treated in the same way as students travelling from outside the EU to study in Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33826/23]
View answerThe nationality requirements for the Student Grant Scheme are set out in Section 14 of the Student Support Act 2011 and Regulation 5 of the Student Support Regulations 2023. The candidate's nationality or immigration status in the State determines whether or not they meet the nationality requirement outlined in the Act and Regulations, and would be therefore eligible to qualify for a student grant.
Permission to remain in the State on the basis of a Stamp 4 Visa, of itself, does not meet the nationality requirements of the Student Grant Scheme 2023.
There is provision for a review of eligibility where a person’s circumstances changes during the academic year. This includes a change in relation to a student's nationality or immigration status. Where a student acquires Irish citizenship by naturalisation, or is granted a category of permission to remain provided for in the legislation during the course of their studies, they may apply to SUSI to have their application reassessed but they will only become eligible from the date of meeting the nationality eligibility criteria.
I think it is important that our approach to these issues is equitable, consistent and fully aligned with the intent and purpose of the immigration permissions which are granted to individuals. The issues raised are subject to consideration by my Department as part of the ongoing budget process.
