Grant Question with Health Implication

Catoblepas

Hi all,

I'm currently in my 3rd year of studies of a Level 8 degree however I decided late in the year not to complete my studies in this course and wish to transfer. Most of the reason I couldn't complete it was due to a psychiatric illness I suffered which greatly hindered my ability to attend and study.

I've decided to apply for Advanced Entry into Trinity College for a related but different discipline, also for 3rd year. My University have informed me I could be entitled to a fee waver which may allow my fees to be transferred on health grounds.

However my local county council informed me "under no circumstances will grants be given to a repeat third year student". This is the higher maintenance grant with top-up and I simply cannot afford college in any way without it. Considering on health grounds, would there be any way to obtain the grant as I don't think I should be punished for wanting to complete my studies based on a psychiatric illness I had no part in choosing.

Thanks in advance for any replies.

Annasopra

Catoblepas wrote: »

Hi all,

I'm currently in my 3rd year of studies of a Level 8 degree however I decided late in the year not to complete my studies in this course and wish to transfer. Most of the reason I couldn't complete it was due to a psychiatric illness I suffered which greatly hindered my ability to attend and study.

I've decided to apply for Advanced Entry into Trinity College for a related but different discipline, also for 3rd year. My University have informed me I could be entitled to a fee waver which may allow my fees to be transferred on health grounds.

However my local county council informed me "under no circumstances will grants be given to a repeat third year student". This is the higher maintenance grant with top-up and I simply cannot afford college in any way without it. Considering on health grounds, would there be any way to obtain the grant as I don't think I should be punished for wanting to complete my studies based on a psychiatric illness I had no part in choosing.

Thanks in advance for any replies.

Not sure but I think it would be no harm to go a local TDs clinic and ask if they know of anything. Just to point out though colleges do administer special welfare funds and funds for students with disabilities. These could be an option for you.

hdowney

don't take that as gospel.

i was doing a level 5 a number of yrs ago, and cos of various health problems i had to do a 1yr course over 2yrs. my local vec said no way to fee waiver and no way to grant. i was like FK. but the head of my college knew of my circz cos i approached him and asked for advice. the man fought my corner right through and i got fee waiver and grant.

so if there are people either in the college you are leaving or the college you are attending whom you can approach to get onside and help fight your corner go for it. good luck