Paul Connaughton (Galway East, Fine Gael)
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541. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills what supports, other than the student universal support Ireland maintenance grant, are available to students whose families are struggling financially to maintain them in third level education; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33200/15]

Jan O'Sullivan (Limerick City, Labour)
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In addition to the supports under the Student Grant Scheme, students in third-level institutions experiencing exceptional financial need can apply for support under the Student Assistance Fund. 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. Information on the fund is available through the Access Office in the third level institution attended.

In addition to the supports provided by my Department, the option of tax relief at the standard rate of tax may be claimed in respect of tuition fees paid for approved courses at approved colleges of higher education including approved undergraduate and postgraduate courses in EU Member States and in non-EU countries. Further information on this tax relief is available from the Revenue Commissioners on their website at www.revenue.ie