Written answers
Tuesday, 30 September 2025
Department of Education and Skills
Third Level Costs
Maeve O'Connell (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context
977. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills to provide an update regarding the work of officials within his Department towards encouraging access to graduate-entry medicine student loans. [51692/25]
James Lawless (Kildare North, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context
As the Deputy may be aware, my department provides support for broadening access to Graduate Entry Medicine programmes through the part-subsidy of fees for EU students. This subsidy is paid to the higher education institutions via the Higher Education Authority, with the balance being paid by the student.
Graduate Entry Medicine (GEM) is an accelerated four-year programme designed for individuals who already hold a degree and wish to pursue a medical career. As GEM is considered a second degree, students are not eligible for support under the Free Fees Initiative or the Student Grant Scheme due to progression criteria.
To further explore ways to reduce the financial burden on GEM students, I published the Department’s annual Options Paper on 19th September. This year’s paper includes proposals such as:
- Increasing the universal contribution towards GEM fees; and
- Amending student support legislation to allow eligible GEM students to receive a grant, aligned with those available to postgraduate students.
In terms of student supports, my Department has taken steps to improve access and affordability for GEM students. Under the National Access Plan, socio-economically disadvantaged students who receive bursaries will now be allowed to retain them if they choose to enter GEM programmes. This is a positive development that supports diversity in the medical profession.
Additionally, GEM students may apply to the Student Assistance Fund (SAF), which provides financial support for students experiencing hardship. This can include help with rent, childcare, transport, and academic materials. Applications are made through the Access Office of the student’s institution.
Tax relief at the standard rate may also be available for tuition fees paid for approved courses, and a rent tax credit may apply. Further details are available at www.revenue.ie.
Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), which are autonomous bodies, determine their own fee structures for GEM programmes. However, the subsidy provided by my department assists students in accessing GEM courses at lower fee rates than would otherwise be required by an institution to deliver the programme.
No comments