Limerick Senator Kieran O’Donnell wishes to highlight that SUSI, the online application system for student third level grant applications, has been activated earlier this year and is now open.
“SUSI (Student Universal Support Ireland) has opened its online application system for third level grant applications earlier for the 2018/19 academic year.
“I would encourage students to apply early to SUSI by going online at www.susi.ie as the process can be a lengthy one. On this SUSI website, students can use their Eligibility Reckoner tool where you can quickly and easily self-assess whether you are eligible for a grant.
“The earlier opening date this year will facilitate the earlier acceptance of grant applications. It will allow students to make important decisions earlier and give them greater certainty on their grant applications.
“ Students need to be aware of the priority closing dates for making SUSI applications. For renewals ,this date is 14th June and for first time applicants, this date is 12th July.
“Furthermore, for first time applicants, you do not need to have your leaving certificate results or have been offered a third level course before making a SUSI application.
“Some of the key changes to the student grant scheme in 2018 include a number of additional income disregards, an extension to the qualifying criteria to receive the special rate of maintenance grant and an increase in the reckonable income threshold for the special rate of maintenance grant.
“The Government is determined that every young person gets an equal opportunity to achieve their educational goals. We need use our strengthening economy to become a leader in the provision of world-class education and skills.
SUSI processed a total 103,300 grant applications in the 2017/18 academic year with almost 82,000 applicants assessed as eligible for grant support. It is anticipated that a similar number will apply for grant support for the 2018/19 academic year.
Over €400m has been allocated in 2018 for access measures in further and higher education. This includes various targeted supports under the National Access Plan (2015-2019) and circa €370m for student grants, including an additional €3m secured in Budget 2018 for the rolling costs associated with the reintroduction of maintenance grants for the most disadvantaged students.
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