New SUSI grant rules could cut costs for thousands of students claims Laois representative

Changes to the SUSI student grant scheme could benifit up to 50,000 Irish undergraduates a result of the widening of these income limits.

That's the view of Laois TD and Minister of State Sean Fleming on the the opening of applications for new student supports. 

He outlined some changes which he believed cut the cost of attending third-level institutions for students and their families, for the coming academic year.   

The improvements outlined by the Minister include:

• A reduction in the contribution fee of €1,500 for families earning between €55,240 to €62,000.
• A reduction of €500 in the contribution fee for eligible households earning between €62,000 and €100,000.  

"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," he said.  

Minister Fleming said a new higher income limit of €62,000 could see half the student contribution fee paid on behalf of students under this income level.

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He added that students can now earn up to €6,552, outside of their term time, without affecting their means assessment for the student grant.

The Fianna Fáil TD encouraged all current undergraduate students, and those planning to go to college in September, to visit www.susi.ie and apply now.