Going back to 3rd Level in Sept BETA question

Stuxnet

so guys here's my dilemma in a nutshell,
I'm 29 year old carpenter, ex carpenter you could say ! damn recession, any how time to re-skill I think, I want to go back to third level in sept, what's the story in successfully getting this BTEA, as I understand it, I'll be able collect the much needed few euros while I return to study,

do I have to be "out of work for 6 months" to qualify for this ?

I find this a bit harsh, I mean can I work for a long as possible knowing I'll be returning to college in sept ? or will I have to time my getting laid off and be signing on or not see a penny, which would be an impossible situation if I wanted to go back
I see the maintenance grant is gone for future student next year, I could live with that if I knew I was able receive the BTEA, I'd scrape by, no pints for 4 years !!

any tips advice appreciated
thanks

RoyalMarine

IF your entitled to the BTEA scheme, then you wont be entitled to claim for a maintenance grant.

have a read here on the guidelines for applying for the BTEA.
http://www.citizensinformation.ie/categories/social-welfare/social-welfare-payments/back-to-education/back_to_education_allowance

when i applied, i was unemployed and claiming job seekers benefit.
i was out of work from janurary - september 2009, and the local facilitator accepted this.
however, they strongly suggest you be on jsb\jsa for 9-12 months in order to recieve the BTEA.
also, by claiming BTEA, you also have the ability to apply for rent allowance.