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Returning to Education

  • 03-10-2018 5:16pm
    #1
    Drew P. Wiener
    Registered Users Posts: 47 ✭


    Hi All,

    Next year I'm planning to return to education on a full time basis, as a mature student. I recently returned home from working abroad, am currently working full time (Contracted until Christmas), and back living with my retired parents.

    In 2014 I completed a Level 6 undergraduate course, and plan to commence a Level 8 undergraduate course in September 2019. As far as I can see, this means I will qualify for Free Fees, as I am taking moving upwards on the National Framework of Qualifications.

    My question relates to the other grants/funding I can potentially receive.

    If I was to work full time up until next September, I would NOT qualify for the Back to Education Allowance, as one needs to be on a welfare payment of sorts, for at least 9 months prior to returning to education. Right?

    Does this also mean I would not qualify for a SUSI Fee Grant for the annual €3000 Student Contribution or a Maintenance Grant for week to week expenses, due to the fact I had been working full time, whilst living at home?

    So,

    If I work my ass off until next September, I'm only going to receive absolutely no financial aid for my Student Contribution fund, and end up in loads of debt after 4 years. To go with this I would receive no week to week financial aid, so would be dependent on extra hours on part time job which would potentially impact on my grade.

    Or

    If I see out my contract until Christmas, ride the wave of welfare, boredom, and subsequent depression until September 2019, I would qualify for 4 years’ worth of financial aid, and be remotely debt free.

    Surely I cannot be right?


Comments

  • #2
    DublinGirl1989
    Registered Users Posts: 8 ✭DublinGirl1989


    Hi there,

    First of all well done for making the decision to go back! Where will you be studying? I went back to Maynooth last year!

    In regards to the BTEA, you will receive about 160€ a week which is pretty good! I worked until a week before I went back so am not entitled to any help during the year! I work as many hours as I can to scrape by but I am often stressed and tired trying to balance everything plus I don’t earn very much more! But just to make you aware if you get this, you still have to pay the fees yourself; the 3000€ is not covered by the social welfare!

    In regards to Susi, you can apply but they will likely make you apply as a dependent and take your parents earnings into account which could push you over the threshold! I would apply to them anyway because you have nothing to lose, maybe speak to the citizens advice before hand to get an idea of where you might stand! I have written a post about my experience with them if you want to take a look!

    I hope this somewhat helps and best of luck!


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