Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 October 2012
226. Deputy Mary Mitchell O'Connor asked the Minister for Education and Skills if grant aid will be provided for students doing courses abroad when that course is not being provided by a third level institution here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43155/12]
Amharc ar fhreagraUnder my Department's student grant scheme, maintenance grants are payable to undergraduate students doing courses abroad who are pursuing an approved full-time course in an approved institution and who meet the prescribed conditions of funding including those which relate to nationality, residency, previous academic attainment and means. An "approved institution" as set out in the Student Support Act 2011 includes an educational instituion that provides higher education and training which is situated in a Member State which is maintained or assisted by recurrent grants from public funds.
An "approved course" as set out in the Act means a course which is provided by an approved institution and has been prescribed as an approved course. To be an approved undergraduate courses in an approved institution in a Member State the course must be full-time, take not less than 2 years to complete, be provided in an institution that comes within the definition outlined above and must lead to a recognised major higher education and training qualification. In addition tax relief on tuition fees may be available for students attending courses in colleges abroad. Details in relation to this relief are available from the Revenue Commissioners.
