Michael McCarthy
Ceist:249. Deputy Michael McCarthy asked the Minister for Education and Skills the financial supports available for a mature student working full time; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38989/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 14 October 2014
Ceisteanna (249)
Freagraí scríofa
Under the terms of the student grant scheme, grant assistance is awarded to students who meet the prescribed conditions of funding including those which relate to nationality, residency, approved course, previous academic attainment and means.
Under my Department's student grant scheme, eligible candidates may receive funding provided they are attending an approved course at an approved institution, an approved course is defined as a full-time undergraduate course of at least two years duration or a full-time postgraduate course of not less than one year duration pursued in an approved institution.Students in third-level institutions experiencing exceptional financial need can apply for support under the Student Assistance Fund. This Fund assists students, in a sensitive and compassionate manner, who might otherwise be unable to continue their third level studies due to their financial circumstances
Information on the fund is available through the Access Officer in the third level institution attended. The fund is administered on a confidential, discretionary basis.
In addition to the student grant, tax relief at the standard rate of tax may be claimed in respect of tuition fees paid for approved courses at approved colleges of higher education. Further information on this tax relief is available from the Revenue Commissioners on www.revenue.ie