Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael)
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312. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the reason a FETAC level 5 course is considered an interruption in the five-year break in studies for a person (details supplied) who is applying for a student grant; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22758/16]

Richard Bruton (Dublin Bay North, Fine Gael)
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Article 13(6) is the relevant article in the 2016 student grant scheme providing for second chance students.

Where a mature student previously attended but did not successfully complete a course and re - enters an approved course at PLC, undergraduate or postgraduate level in the relevant academic year, following a full 5 year break in studies, he/she shall be considered a "second chance student".

I understand that the student referred to by the Deputy did not meet the criteria for second chance student as he did not have a five year break.

Where an individual applicant has had an appeal turned down, in writing, by SUSI, and remains of the view that SUSI has not interpreted the scheme correctly in his/her case, an appeal form outlining the position may be submitted by the applicant to the Student Grants Appeals Board.