Covers
Rent, heat and light, food, books, travel, childcare, medical
The Student Assistance Fund is held by your own college and handed out by your own access office, which is why it is invisible from the outside. It supports full-time or part-time higher education students experiencing financial difficulties, and it is designed to sit on top of the student grant rather than instead of it.
Quick facts
- Covers
- Rent, heat and light, food, books, travel, childcare, medical
- Does not cover
- Tuition fees, registration fees, loan repayments
- Who
- Full-time or part-time higher education students
- Apply to
- Your college access office
What it can pay for
- Books and class materials
- Rent, heating and lighting bills
- Food
- Essential travel
- Childcare costs for students who are parents
- Medical costs
It is meant as financial support in addition to the student grant. It does not cover tuition fees, registration fees or student loan repayments — so if fees are the problem, this is the wrong door.
Which colleges have it
Universities, institutes of technology and some approved colleges take part. The fund is not available to students in further education or post-leaving certificate (PLC) colleges. Ask your access office or student services — the fund is administered by the college itself, not by SUSI or the Department.
How to apply for the Student Assistance Fund
Have these ready:
- Proof of your own or your parents' income, if asked
- Receipts for costs like rent, bills or childcare
Check your college takes part
Universities, institutes of technology and some approved colleges run the fund.
Contact your college access office
Ask the access or student services office in your college how to apply.
Ask about a closing date
Some colleges have a closing date for applications, so check yours.
Your college assesses your application
Your college looks at your application, and a small committee may make the final decision.
Your college decides the amount
How much you get varies and is decided by your college after the assessment.
Time limit: Some colleges have a closing date, so ask your access office.
Common questions
What does the Student Assistance Fund cover?
Does it cover my fees?
Can part-time students apply?
Where do I apply?
Check the official sources
This guide is general information, not financial advice. Rules, rates and eligibility change and differ by country — always confirm the current details with the relevant official body before you act.
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