The deadline to make changes to your course choice is fast approaching - the Change of Mind facility remains open until July 1 at 5.15pm. It’s still not too late for you to sit and double check that you have fully researched your course choices. Sit down with your parents/guardians not just regarding your choices, but also at the actual costs of going to college. Looking at options where you can live at home is always a worthwhile option.
Costs
If you plan to go to a college which allows you to stay at home the costs will be considerably less. Statistically the costs are in the region of €7,500; this includes the registration fee which for students in 2023/2024 is now €3,000 per annum.
Students who are considering studying outside their own county are looking at approximately €12,000. However, those who have chosen courses in the capital are looking at a cost in the region of €15,000. This may be out of reach for many families, especially if there is more than one sibling in third level education. Budgeting is extremely important, you must consider utility bills, social life, transport, books etc.
Susi grant – Deadline for new applicants is early July
Some funding is available, but a lot of families are just outside the threshold. The SUSI threshold has increased significantly this year, so it is well worth your while going on to SUSI.ie as you may be eligible for a grant.
You must be applying for a recognised course in a third level college, and it must be of two years’ duration or more. There are huge financial advantages if you are eligible for a grant. Your registration fee of €3,000 will be covered, and depending on the distance from your home to the college you may also receive the full grant. This grant will be paid monthly into your bank account from approximately September to May.
Cost of repeating
It is very important that you research your course of choice thoroughly. Sixteen per cent of first year students drop out of college each year; the reasons by and large are because of the wrong course choices. This can have a huge effect on your wellbeing, self-esteem and your self-worth. Depending on when you drop out of college, you could find yourself having to pay the tuition fees and the registration fees the following year if you decide to change paths and apply for a different course. The Government will only pay for one year of a course once. When you enter second year the tuition fees will once again be covered.
However, the course that you are applying for must be in a recognised college and showing progression.
Gap year/PLC courses
Taking a gap year can have many advantages. It allows you time to reflect on the options which are open to you, it may allow you to get a job and save up for college if budget is a consideration. There are many post Leaving Cert courses which do not require points and which lead on to other third level courses. The SUSI grant covers students who attend a PLC course as PLC courses are considered to be the start of your third level education. Most students can access a PLC course in their own geographical area which again has huge positive cost of living implications. No registration fees are required as of last year and work experience is one of the modules which you will be studying on the course. In many cases it can be a fantastic opportunity for obtaining summer or weekend employment.
Apprenticeships
There is again a huge increase in the number of apprenticeships in trade, finance, cyber security, travel and tourism, accounting technician, and transport management, to mention a few. Check those out on apprenticeship.ie or solas.ie Many of those apprenticeships can lead on to a Level 9 masters.
Education support loans
If you do not qualify for a grant, there are education support loans available from your credit union and also from AIB and Bank of Ireland. You need to open an account and approval for a loan is very fast if you are eligible.
There are student assistance funds also within the college you are applying to which are worth checking out. Go to the access office within your college to see what funding you may be eligible for.
