Student Grant Scheme Eligibility

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 2 May 2013

Thursday, 2 May 2013

Ceisteanna (98)

Willie Penrose

Ceist:

98. Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Education and Skills the eligibility to a higher education grant, when a person has applied for and been awarded a grant to pursue a degree course but was unable to complete first year and in October 2013 wishes to change to an alternative course; if they will be considered eligible for a grant in October 2013; if he will outline the eligibility criteria regrading same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21051/13]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Education and Skills

If the student is commencing a new course of study in the academic year 2013/14 it will be necessary for him/her to establish their eligibility by submitting a fully completed online grant application to Student Universal Support Ireland via www.studentfinance.ie when the application process for the 2013/14 academic year opens.

The Student Grant Scheme provides awarding authorities with discretion to waive the provisions regarding progression in exceptional circumstances and consider funding for a repeat period of study.

The Deputy will appreciate that in the absence of all of the relevant details that would be contained in an individual's application in relation to exceptional circumstances for a repeat period of study, it would not be possible for me to say whether or not a student would qualify for a grant.