Seán Fleming (Laois, Fianna Fail)
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2511. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if the income threshold for the student contribution is being considered; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19253/25]

James Lawless (Kildare North, Fianna Fail)
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The Deputy will be aware, in Budget 2025, all income thresholds will be increased effective from September 2025. This includes increases to the student contribution threshold.

From September 2025:-

• I am increasing the special rate of maintenance threshold from €26,200 to €27,400 in line with Social Welfare increases.
• I am increasing all other maintenance and student contribution grant thresholds by 15%.
• I am also increasing the postgraduate fee contribution threshold and the part-time scheme threshold to match the new 100% Student Contribution threshold which will now be €64,315.

For three years in a row my Department has published an Annual Options Paper outlining measures to help reduce the cost of education for students and families across Further and Higher Education, Research and Apprenticeships. The paper also provided an overview of ongoing work in relation to Student Accommodation. My Department will again publish this options paper which will set out options for further enhancement of student supports for consideration as part of the budgetary process.