Laois TD Willie Aird welcomes higher SUSI student grant rates

Laois TD Deputy Willie Aird has urged Laois third level students to check if they qualify for the increased third level SUSI grant system.

The Student Universal Support Ireland (SUSI) has opened for applications for the 2025/26 academic year, the Fine Gael Deputy said.

He said the "substantial increase in the thresholds for grants" means more students will now be eligible for grant support.

“The increase in student maintenance grants are a step forward for students and families in Laois and across the country. Ensuring we remove any barriers to education has always been a key priority for Fine Gael. I’m delighted that more students in Laois will now be able to benefit from financial support," he said.

“Fine Gael is committed to cutting the cost of education and alleviating financial pressures, allowing students to focus on their studies rather than any undue financial stress," added Dep Aird, who rose to national representation in the November 2024 Laois General Election after serving 45 years as a Portlaoise councillor.  

“More families will now qualify, with the income limit raised to €115,000, allowing more students to access financial support.

“The special rate of grant has increased from €26,200 to €27,400, in line with rises in social welfare rates. Students can now earn more during the holidays without it affecting their grant, with the income deduction rising to €8,424.

“The scheme has been broadened to include students with certain immigration statuses, such as those under the Regularisation Scheme.

“I want to encourage all eligible students across Laois to apply now.  Fine Gael believes in making major investments in our higher education system and we will help to ensure that every student in Laois has a meaningful opportunity to learn and get the qualification they want,” the Laois TD said.

Read also: 'Now is the time' for political pressure for Mountmellick bypass

Following Budget 2025, SUSI income thresholds have increased by 15%. The top income threshold for SUSI has risen from €100,000 to €115,000. This rate gives families a €500 discount off student fees which are typically over €3,000 per year, but gives no maintenance grant payment.

The first €5,000 of any scholarship or bursary will be disregarded from SUSI’s income calculation.

The normal full SUSI payment covering fees and a maintenance grant, for families up to three children, cuts off at €47,100.

The "special rate" applies to families where one parent is receiving a social welfare income. Income limits rise by €4,950 per fourth and subsequent child.

Renewal applications close on June 5 and new applications close on July 10.

Visit the SUSI website at www.susi.ie.