Scholarships

Most colleges offer a small number of scholarships or bursaries for students to help cover costs of living. These are generally linked to particular subjects, and go to students with outstanding academic results. Those with sporting or excellence in other subjects, or a disadvantaged background, can also take advantage of special schemes designed to reward high achievers in their particular fields.

The All Ireland Scholarships Scheme for example, is a government programme that awards scholarships to the 120 top performing Leaving Cert students from disadvantaged backgrounds. Read college prospectuses and web sites closely, and visit www.studentfinance.ie, to find out what you may be able to receive.

Every year the government provides a Student Assistance Fund to higher education providers, including all universities, institutes of technology and teacher training colleges, as well a number of other colleges. Full time undergraduate students who are experiencing financial problems can apply for assistance.