SUSI postgrad

Albigatin

I'm trying to apply for a SUSI grant for my post grad as an independant student. The only way I can prove I live away from my parents is a copy of my lease from my landlord (non PRTB) and a bill in their name (I'm sharing with the landlord). Does anyone know if that be enough?
The alternative it that I'll have to apply as a mature dependant. In that case both of my parents are retired (a teacher and soldier) getting their pensions from their jobs. Will their pensions count as reconable income? I'm unemployed, and have been unemployed for 2 years.
Which of those two options would suit me better?

newmug

I thought SUSI didnt cover postgrads?

Albigatin

they do

Sup08

Albigatin wrote: »

I'm trying to apply for a SUSI grant for my post grad as an independant student. The only way I can prove I live away from my parents is a copy of my lease from my landlord (non PRTB) and a bill in their name (I'm sharing with the landlord). Does anyone know if that be enough?
The alternative it that I'll have to apply as a mature dependant. In that case both of my parents are retired (a teacher and soldier) getting their pensions from their jobs. Will their pensions count as reconable income? I'm unemployed, and have been unemployed for 2 years.
Which of those two options would suit me better?

When was your last course and how old are you now?

Yes, their income would count if you were to apply as a mature dependent.

Albigatin

I finished my last course two years ago, and I'm now 23

Sup08

You are not eligible to be assessed as a mature independent for another year.

You must have a break of 3 years in your education before you can be re-classed at your point of re-entry.

Red Soup

Albigatin wrote: »

I'm unemployed, and have been unemployed for 2 years.
Which of those two options would suit me better?

I know it sounds counter-intuitive but from a funding point of view you're better sitting on the dole for another year and applying in 2016. You'll be 24, which means you'll be eligible for the Back to Education Grant towards your postgrad, and you'll also be eligible for SUSI mature independent.

My friend did this, waited until he was 24 to go back to do his masters, and he's currently finishing a Springboard course (i.e. free masters course to those who have been are long-term unemployed http://www.springboardcourses.ie/) and has been receiving his Back to Education Grant every week by cheque which covers his rent and living.

Meanwhile, I worked abroad for the three years he was on the dole at home, and when I came back I was ineligible for any grants so it looks like i'll have to pay my €11,000 masters myself and €500 per month rent plus living with no support (apart from my part time job).

So at the end of it all i'll be in debt, and he won't. Smart move.