Thomas Pringle (Donegal, Independent)
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299. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills to outline the reasons each of the 37 applications for student support under the scheme aimed at making third level education accessible for young persons in the direct provision system were rejected; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12807/16]

Richard Bruton (Dublin Bay North, Fine Gael)
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The Deputy will be aware that the Pilot Support Scheme was introduced last year for students who are in the Protection System or at the Leave to Remain (but not deportation order) stage. The scheme was intended to provide supports to qualifying students which were similar to those available in the statutory based Student Grant Scheme.

A total of 39 applicants applied for the pilot scheme with 2 qualifying for support. Most applicants who did not qualify for support, failed to qualify under two or more criteria. The reasons why applicants did not qualify for a grant were as follows:

- Did not have five years in the Irish Education system;

- Did not meet the criteria for permission to reside under the scheme;

- Did not complete the Leaving Certificate;

- Did not have residence in Ireland for five years prior to their application to the pilot scheme;

- Attending a private college; and

- Did not meet the progression criteria.