Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Independent)
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88. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the average annual cost to his Department of educating a third level student to degree level; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44028/13]

Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
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The estimated cost to the Exchequer for a degree course is €6,500 per student per year.

As the Deputy will be aware students who qualify under my Department's free fees schemes are liable to pay the Student Contribution which currently stands at €2,500. The Contribution is paid by the Exchequer in respect of students who qualify under my Department's Student Grant Scheme (some 40%) and therefore, in such cases the estimated cost to my Department would increase to €9,000 per student per year.