Asylum seekers can apply for a Student Grant Scheme for Asylum Seekers through The Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science. In order to be eligible to apply for this support, you are required to meet the following criteria:
- have been resident in Ireland for a combined period of three years in the preceding 5 years
- be in the protection system
- or at the leave to remain (but not deportation order) stage
- enrolling in an approved Post Leaving Certificate Course (PLC) or undergraduate course
Full details and application forms for the Student Grant Scheme can be found by visiting the Department of Further Education website.
Some organisations, like the Irish Refugee Council, provide grants and schemes to assist asylum seekers in accessing further education and training that are oftentimes cost-prohibitive.
The SUSI Grant is the main financial support scheme provided by the Government for students studying in Ireland. Grants are categorised in two ways as either maintenance grants which provide financial assistance with living costs for students and fee grants paying tuition fees for students who are not qualified under the free fees scheme. Further details of the free fees scheme can also be found on the Citizens Information website.
The University of Sanctuary Ireland (UoSI) is an initiative involving many third level institutions in Ireland. It aims to continue and encourage the practice of diversity in colleges and universities by welcoming people from a migrant background. A range of scholarships and supports are offered by some of the third level institutions. Details on the individual institutions taking part in this initiative can be found on the link above.
The Irish Refugee Council manages a small grant scheme which provides financial assistance to people in the protection process to access further education. The fund can provide assistance such as course fees, transportation costs and course materials. For more information visit the Irish Refugee Council website.
The Irish Refugee Council also produces a helpful information booklet which includes information about higher education in Ireland and the scholarship and funding offered to asylum seekers.