Jen Cummins (Dublin South Central, Social Democrats)
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942. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills his plans to support Muslim students in accessing financial support to continue their education in line with their faith. [33824/25]

James Lawless (Kildare North, Fianna Fail)
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The main support available to assist students with the cost of attending higher education is the Student Grant Scheme as administered by the awarding authority, Student Universal Support Ireland (SUSI) on behalf of the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science.

A new Part-Time Fee Scheme for Specified Undergraduate Courses was launched on 01 August 2024. This Scheme, now in its second year, will provide fee support to part-time students attending 111 in-person and hybrid undergraduate courses leading to a major award.

Grant assistance for the above schemes are awarded to eligible students attending an approved course in an approved institution who meet the prescribed conditions of funding, including those relating to nationality, residency, previous academic attainment and means.

In addition to the grant schemes, students may be eligible to apply to the Student Assistance Fund (SAF) for financial support. This Fund provides financial support to full and part-time students who are experiencing financial difficulties while attending college and can provide assistance towards their rent, childcare costs, transport costs and books/class materials. Applications can be made to this Fund through the Access Office in a student’s higher education institution.

Tax relief at the standard rate of tax may be available in respect of tuition fees paid for approved courses at approved colleges of higher education. A rent tax credit may also be available. More information is available on www.revenue.ie/.