Information for Mature Students
A mature student is someone who is at least 23 years old on 1 January of the year of their first point of entry / re-entry into further or higher education.
If you are a mature student applying for a grant, we’ve put together some information which might be useful as you plan your next steps in further or higher education.
If you are living with your parents / legal guardians, you will be assessed as a dependent student. Both your income and that of your parents / legal guardians will be taken into consideration.
If you are living independently from your parents/legal guardians, you may be able to be assessed as an independent student. Your income and that of your spouse / cohabitant will be taken into consideration.
If you are considering leaving your current employment to return to study, your application may be assessed with reference to change in circumstances.
SUSI cannot apply a change in circumstances until it has occurred. If you haven’t left your employment at the time of making your application to SUSI, you should request an Internal Review of your application after your employment has ceased.
If you are interested in studying on a part-time basis, fee contribution grants are available to eligible students for 62 approved part-time undergraduate courses in the State.
Check out our dedicated part-time page for full details of the eligibility criteria and application process.
To be eligible for grant funding, you must be progressing in your education and attending an approved course in an approved college.
If you previously attended but did not complete a course and are returning to study after a three-year break, you may be considered a second chance student.
If you have applied for either the Back to Education Allowance (BTEA) or a Vocational Training Opportunities Scheme (VTOS) payment, you will not be eligible for a maintenance grant from SUSI. You may still be eligible for a fee grant.
