Michael Ring
Ceist:415 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Finance if he will consider granting tax relief to persons studying a degree outside of the country, when they are not receiving any grant aid from the State. [16213/02]
Written Answers. - Tax Reliefs.
As the Deputy will be aware, in the Finance Act 2001, the various tax reliefs for third level education were merged into a single relief and the relief was considerably widened. Generally speaking, the new relief now covers fees paid by undergraduate students in Ireland and EU member states. It also applies to fees paid by postgraduate students in Ireland and in both EU and non-EU member states. Undergraduate courses, which may be full or part time, must be of at least two academic year's duration while postgraduate courses must be of at least one, but not more that four, academic year's duration.
Tuition fees paid by an individual on his or her own behalf or on behalf of a spouse, child or person for whom the individual is the legal guardian all qualify for relief, which is available at the standard rate of tax. No relief is available for any part of fees which are met directly or indirectly by grants, scholarships, an employer or otherwise.
The maximum relief that can be claimed in respect of third level fees is set by the Minister for Education and Science. It is currently €3,175 per year. Full details of the scheme are available on the Revenue website: www.revenue.ie, Publications, Leaflets and Guides, IT 31.