Explainer: What you need to know about the higher education grants

The changes – agreed as part of the 2023 budget – mean that special and Band 1 subsistence rates will increase by 14 percent and all other subsistence rates by 10 percent.

By how much have study grants increased?

The additional amount will be paid to entitled dependents:

Special maintenance kit:

Non-adjacent tariff: €476

Sub-tariff: €201

Standard tariff – full maintenance volume 1:

Non-adjacent tariff: €251

Sub tariff: 110 €

Standard Tariff – Part Maintenance Volume 2:

Non-adjacent tariff: €137

Sub-rate: €62

Standard Tariff – Part Maintenance Volume 3:

Non-adjacent tariff: €96

Sub-rate: €45

Standard Tariff – Partial Maintenance Band 4:

Non-adjacent tariff: €53

Sub-rate: €28

When does the increase take effect?

The increase came into effect on Monday, January 2nd and applies to students for the 2023/2024 academic year.

Student fees will increase proportionately, with students in the 2023/2024 academic year taking full advantage of the fee increase.

“The student living grant is incredibly important to thousands of students and their families across the country,” said Mr. Harris.

“But we also recognized that it needed improvement to meet the challenges of inflationary pressures and a cost of living crisis.

“That’s why I’m pleased to announce that student support rates will increase by 10 to 14 percent starting today.”

Are there other advantages for students?

The increases come on top of other measures introduced under the 2023 budget to help students.

In December, eligible PLC, undergraduate and postgraduate students who receive the special rate received the equivalent of an additional monthly child support payment.

The undergraduate tuition fee for eligible college students has also been reduced by €1,000 for this academic year.

“It is my job as Minister to ensure that everyone, whatever their background, has equal opportunities for further and higher education,” Mr Harris said.

“That’s why we have reduced the contribution for all non-contributory undergraduate students by 1,000 euros and are increasing all maintenance payments by at least 10 percent from today.

“That’s why the government has also lowered the fees for public transport.

“I know the cost of education remains a challenge for many in this country, but I am committed to continuing to implement measures to ensure that no one is left behind simply because they cannot afford to pursue their educational goals. “