Government announces expansion of student financial support

The Government has announced an expansion of financial support for students, just as SUSI applications open for the 2026/27 academic year.

Minister for Further and Higher Education James Lawless TD has encouraged students and their families to check their eligibility, stating that an affordable college remains a priority for the Government.

As part of Budget 2026, from September 2026, the government announced enhancements to the student grant scheme.

These include a €500 increase to the grant threshold, an increase in the special rate threshold and an increase to the student earnings outside term time.

Minister James Lawless said, “Every year, I meet students and families who tell me how challenging the cost of college can be.

“I’m very conscious of that, and these changes are about easing that pressure and making sure cost isn’t the thing that stops someone pursuing their education.”

He added: “I know that rent, travel and everyday expenses can add up fast. That’s why I have widened the grant thresholds and increased non‑adjacent maintenance rates - doing everything we can to ease the pressure on families when it comes to college costs.”

SUSI will be open for applications, including renewal applications, from April 1, and students can apply on www.susi.ie.