Applications for new student supports have opened and Laois TD Sean Fleming says that they will reduce the costs associated with attending college.
According to the Fianna Fail TD, a number of improvements to reduce the cost of attending third-level institutions for students and their families, for the coming academic year, have been introduced.
There will be a reduction in the contribution fee of €1,500 for families earning between €55,240 to €62,000.
There will also be a reduction of €500 in the contribution fee for eligible households earning between €62,000 and €100,000.
Deputy Fleming said: “Up to 50,000 undergraduates could receive support under the Student Grant Scheme for the first time as a result of the widening of these income limits.
“We are committed to building a world class education system and tackling inequality in access to education, based on a person’s economic background.
“These new changes will allow more students to avail of the grants supports.
“This will help as part of a reduction of costs for those going to college and follows up to 14% increases in the maintenance grant in January.
“A new higher income limit of €62,000 could see half the student contribution fee paid on behalf of students under this income level.
“Students can now earn up to €6,552, outside of their term time, without affecting their means assessment for the student grant.
“The student grant system is now open. I encourage all current undergraduate students, and those planning to go to college in September, to visit susi.ie and apply now.”
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