Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 30 January 2018
213. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Education and Skills if his Department provides further supports for students who are travelling to Northern Ireland for their studies; if his attention has been drawn to supports available through the Northern Ireland authorities that would be applicable to students here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3984/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe main support available to assist students with the cost of higher education is the Student Grant Scheme. In 2017 SUSI provided some €370 million in student supports that benefitted more than 78,000 students.
Students attending approved undergraduate courses in Northern Ireland can apply for a maintenance grant provided they meet the terms and conditions of the Student Grant Scheme. There is also a special derogation contained within the Student Support Act 2011 which provides supports for postgraduate students attending courses in Northern Ireland. Fee grants are not available for those students, other than for exceptional provision in respect of approved postgraduate courses in Northern Ireland.
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 including approved undergraduate and postgraduate courses in EU Member States and in non-EU countries. Further information on this tax relief is available from the Revenue Commissioners on www.revenue.ie.
I understand that a student from another European Union (EU) country studying in Northern Ireland can apply for a student loan to cover the cost of tuition fees. Further information is available on www.studentfinanceni.co.uk.
Prospective students may also wish to contact the relevant college in Northern Ireland for advice on the type and range of supports that are available in that particular college.
