Higher Education - Equity of Access

The Higher Education - Equity of Access Section is responsible for the development of national policy on equity of access to higher education for all students and, in particular, for under-represented groups such as disadvantaged students, mature students and students with disabilities.

The main financial support available for eligible students attending full-time further and higher education courses is the student grant which may include a maintenance grant and a fee grant, depending on eligibility.

The means-tested Student Grant Scheme is administered by the local authorities, Education and Training Boards (ETBs) and Student Universal Support Ireland (SUSI) on behalf of the Department.

The dedicated website www.studentfinance.ie provides a link to SUSI's online application facility, in addition to comprehensive information on student grants and other sources of financial assistance such as the Student Assistance Fund and the Fund for Students with Disabilities.

• policy provision in relation to equity of access to higher education
• provision of the student grant scheme
• oversee the administration of student grants by the grant awarding authorities.
• provide administrative support to the Student Grants Appeals Board
• work with the National Access Office in the Higher Education Authority on the implementation of the National Plan for Equity of Access to higher Education 2015-2019
• provide targeted access supports such as the Student Assistance Fund and Fund for Students with Disabilities through the National Access Officein the Higher Education Authority to facilitate greater levels of educational participation by under-represented groups.
• financial management and reporting in relation to student support expenditure nationally.
• administration of Bursary Scheme and Scholarships.