Do I Qualify For A "Second Chance" Grant?

Amataratsu

Hi, as per the thread title, I'm trying to work out my status with the grant - my 3rd level history is somewhat messy.

I originally did a National Diploma from 2001 to 2004 (now called an Ordinary Degree, which is Level 7).

My grades were high enough to proceed directly to the relevant 4th year add on Honours Degree (level 8), which I did - except I dropped out at my finals (literally 5 exams left to do, talk about being 21 and foolish). I availed of the half grant for all 4 years of my study (and lived at home with my parents).

I had decided a few years ago (September 2011) to return to complete 4th year (I had to resit the entire year as the course content and structure had a drastic overhaul). This was paid in its entirety (registration and tuition fees) out of my own pocket. I only lasted until mid November as my mother had passed away suddenly a few weeks prior to the course starting and it had not really "hit me", so to speak (my father had passed away less than 2 years before this, so it was all a bit too much). At that point in time I applied for a deferral.

I had re-registered Sept 2012 (the IT said that my fees from last year were to the good as I had an exceptional circumstance). The week before saw the dissolution of a personal relationship (I split up with my long term girlfriend) - I never attended any classes, and simply withdrew from the course. I then spiralled into a depression to the point where in May of last year I had to leave work.

Since then I have been treated for depression (psychiatrist visits, communirty health nurse, CBT, antidepressants, etc) and am currently in receipt of illness benefit. I am approaching a point where I am becoming well enough to move on with my life and completing my Honours degree would be the perfect way in which to do it.

Given the fact that I have not availed of any funding/grant since the 2004/2005, I hold a level 7 qualification and am looking to complete a level 8, surely I qualify under the "second chance" scheme?

Thanks in advance for any advice

Edit - would assume that given the exceptional circumstances of my situation, it would have to be reviewed as such.

Annasopra

Best thing to do would be ring susi and ask.

Media999

Pretty sure youll be fine as theres a 5 year gap.