Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 July 2023
1455. Deputy Ivana Bacik asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the projected cost of allowing international students access to the student assistance fund; if he has considered this change; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36898/23]
View answer1475. Deputy Ivana Bacik asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the projected additional cost of allowing international students access to the student assistance fund; if he will consider the creation of a dedicated international student fund; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36925/23]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 1455 and 1475 together.
As independent institutions, HEIs set their own programme fees and admissions policies.
As part of the entry requirement for non EEA students to Ireland (set by the Department of Justice), international students are required to demonstrate financial capacity to support themselves while undertaking study. This includes the capacity to work for 20 hours per week during term time.
The Student Assistance Fund (SAF) provides financial assistance to students experiencing financial difficulties while attending higher education. Students can be assisted towards costs such as rent, childcare, transport and costs associated with the provision of books/class materials.
Students who are non-EU, including UK nationals, but who are eligible for free or reduced fees in line with the criteria for the Free Fees Initiative, may be considered for the Student Assistance Fund subject to meeting other relevant criteria.
International/non-EU fee paying students who pay the full international rate of fee are not eligible for funding under the Student Assistance Fund. Higher Education Institutions are advised to ring-fence funding from non-EU fee income to provide for any emergency financial requirements arising for students in need and the creation of a separate dedicated fund is not under consideration by my Department.
