Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 17 June 2021
372. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the details of the supports and grants and so on that are available for qualifying students from this jurisdiction accepted to study for primary teaching through Irish at a school (details supplied); the details of the qualifying conditions that apply; the level of grant aid available; and if other relevant information will be provided. [32593/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe main support available to assist students with the cost of higher education is the Student Grant Scheme. 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. Such students may be eligible for assistance towards their postgraduate fees up to the maximum fees limit of €6,270 or a Postgraduate Fee Contribution of €3,500. The income threshold for eligibility for these grants has increased from €31,500 to €54,240. There is no other provision under the student grant scheme for the payment of fees to students studying outside of the State.
Students attending college in the academic year 2021/22 are required to submit their grant application to SUSI via www.susi.ie when the online application system opens for 2021/22 to have their eligibility for grant assistance assessed.
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.
