Ireland 2023/24 - student fees and grants

National student fee

In Ireland every student pays something: the student contribution is EUR 3,000 a year. Under the Free Fees Initiative, the State covers the tuition fee, but not the student contribution, for full-time first-time undergraduates who are EU/EEA, Swiss or UK citizens (or have certain residence permissions) and have lived in the EU/EEA, Switzerland or the UK for at least three of the five years before starting their course. If you qualify for a SUSI need-based grant, the State may also pay all or part of your student contribution.

Full-time undergraduates not covered by Free Fees pay EU or international fee rates set by each institution. Part-time and postgraduate students usually pay fees, although SUSI may help with tuition. International students who do not qualify for State support can face higher fees. Fees vary by field of study, and institutions can offer their own waivers or reductions. Springboard+ offers free or subsidised places in priority skill areas, including for people who already have a degree.

Student grants

Grants are need-based: full-time home students who meet the conditions of the Student Grant Scheme can receive one, and there is no age limit. Students in certain groups, for example those facing socio-economic barriers, can also access bursaries.

According to Eurydice data, in 2023/24 need-based grants ranged from EUR 612 to EUR 7,586 a year, most commonly EUR 4,292. Merit-based and universal grants are not part of the system.

Loans

There are no publicly subsidised student loans.

Tax benefit for student's parents

There are no tax benefits for students' parents. Students who are not eligible for State support may claim tax relief on tuition fees from the Revenue Commissioners.

Family allowances

There are no family allowances for students' parents. Students in financial difficulty can turn to the Student Assistance Fund, which helps with costs such as accommodation, transport and food.