Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 1 February 2024
388. Deputy Mairéad Farrell asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science what supports are currently available for part-time post graduate services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4683/24]
View answerThe Student Grant Scheme is currently targeted at full-time students. Courses that are part-time are not currently approved for the Student Grant Scheme. However, the Deputy will be aware that from September 2024, a pilot part-time fee grant will be available to provide support for students who are undertaking eligible undergraduate part-time programmes leading to a major award, both in-person, blended and online.
This is a pilot scheme which will inform future decision making. In terms of other supports available, students in third-level institutions experiencing exceptional financial need can apply for support under the Student Assistance Fund (SAF). The funding available for 2023/2024 academic year is over €19 million. SAF is open to both full and part-time registered students on courses of not less than one year's duration leading to an undergraduate or postgraduate qualification.
