A SUSI maintenance grant can help with living costs on a PLC, and you can apply without a Leaving Cert if you have relevant experience. Colleges may add a separate course charge for books or materials.
Quick facts
- Length
- 1 to 2 years
- Level
- NFQ 5 or 6
- Participant contribution
- €200 a year
- Waived with
- Medical card, SUSI, BTEA or VTOS
- SUSI
- Maintenance grant only
- Course charge
- Separate, still payable
What PLCs are
"PLC courses last one to 2 years and lead to an award on the National Framework of Qualifications at NFQ Level 5 or NFQ Level 6 (see below)." Subjects run from childcare, business and computing to hairdressing, sport and horticulture.
"However, you may be able to apply for a PLC course if you have not completed your Leaving Certificate." Relevant work experience or ability can get you in.
What it costs
"You must pay a participant contribution fee of €200 per year to do a PLC course." You're exempt if you "Have a full medical card Are the dependent child of a full medical card holder Are eligible for a student grant (see 'Financial supports' below) Get the Back to Education Allowance or a VTOS payment".
"You must still pay the 'course charge' even if you are exempt from the participant contribution." That varies by college.
Grants
You may qualify for a SUSI maintenance grant towards living costs. "PLC students are not eligible for the fee grant part of the Student Grant Scheme." Back to Education Allowance is another option if you're on welfare.
Applying
Apply on the Fetch website (the Further Education and Training Course Hub) or to the college directly. There's usually an informal interview.
Common questions
How much does a PLC course cost?
A €200 participant contribution a year, plus any course charge set by the college.
Are PLC courses free with a medical card?
The €200 participant contribution is waived with a full medical card, or if you're the dependent child of a holder. Course charges still apply.
Can I get SUSI for a PLC course?
You may get a SUSI maintenance grant, but not the fee grant.
Can I do a PLC without a Leaving Cert?
Possibly, if you have relevant work experience or can show ability in the area.