Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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529. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the reason for the refusal of a higher education grant by SUSI in the case of the son of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [56277/23]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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I have been advised by my officials that based on the reckonable income for the reference period of 2022, the student outlined by the Deputy was awarded the student contribution €500 lump sum grant. The award letter was sent to the student on the 14th June 2023.

I have also been advised, that the student did not submit an appeal to SUSI Appeals Officer within the statutory timeline.

A very important feature of the scheme is the change of circumstances provision. If a student or party to their application experiences a change in circumstances that is not a temporary change and is likely to continue for the foreseeable future, they can apply to SUSI to have their application assessed under the change in circumstances provision (Article 32 of the relevant Student Grant Scheme).

Where a student experiences a change of circumstances during the course of their studies, they may apply to SUSI to have their application re-assessed by emailing: helpdesk@SUSI.ie quoting "Internal Review" in the email subject line.

In terms of other supports available, students in third-level institutions experiencing exceptional financial need can apply for support under the Student Assistance Fund (SAF). This Fund assists students, in a sensitive and compassionate manner, who might otherwise be unable to continue their third level studies due to their financial circumstances.