Michael Finneran (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fianna Fail)

However, all students, including mature students, currently in receipt of the BTEA or VTOS allowances and the maintenance grant will continue to be eligible for both payments for the duration of their current course provided, of course, that they continue to meet the terms and conditions of the schemes. Students progressing to a new course, with effect from the 2010-11 academic year, will no longer be eligible for student maintenance grants in addition to BTEA or VTOS support, but can apply for assistance under the student grant schemes towards the cost of the student services charge and any fees payable. Apart from the maintenance grants schemes and the free fees initiative, financial support is also available to all students, including mature students, in approved third level institutions, through the student assistance fund.

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