Student Grants

'AMLÉ' (Aontas na Mac Léinn in Éirinn) is the new name for the Union of Students in Ireland. It's a direct translation. It came into effect on 13 May 2025. The rebrand reflects the desire of the organisation to promote the use of the Irish Language.
USI was renamed 'AMLÉ' (Aontas na Mac Léinn in Éirinn) on 13 May 2025. The rebrand reflects the desire of the organisation to promote the use of the Irish Language. The translation of 'Aontas na Mac Léinn in Éirinn' to English is 'Union of Students in Ireland'.

The cost of attending college can be a barrier to many families. The Student Grant is available to many students, assisting them with the Student Contribution Charge and offering additional finance to cover living costs such as rent, food and college supplies.

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Overview

Up until the academic year 2011-2012 the Grant System was administered by 66 local authorities and VEC’s. For the academic year 2012-2013 all new Grant applications are being administered by one centralised authority, the City of Dublin VEC, through Student Universal Support Ireland (SAMLÉ).

Eligibility is determined by  a means test based on three criteria; the income of the household, the number of dependent children in the household and the distance the household is from the college being attended. All applications are made online and the payments are made by electronic transfer into the bank account of the student.

How to Apply?

Check studentfinance.ie to confirm your eligibility and watch the SAMLÉ information video below:

httpvh://www.youtube.com/watch?v=edrZOVtllOQ

Log onto grantsonline.ie and set up your passworded account. This will allow you to securely save your information as you fill out the online form.

Fill in the online form, you may save it as you go but once you submit the application you will not be able to edit your information.

You will then receive a ‘Documentation Pack’ which will list the documentation you will need to supply along with where you can locate it i.e. a birth certificate. It is important to note you should send photocopies of requested documentation not the originals.

Your application will be assessed and you will receive a response in writing from SAMLÉ.

If eligible to have the Student Contribution Charge paid for, SAMLÉ will pay the college directly. If eligible for a maintenance payment you will receive payment into your bank account.

Where to get help with your application?

SAMLÉ Support operates a helpdesk on support@susi.cdvec.ie and 0761087874

The Students’ Union in your college can assist you with any difficulties you encounter when applying.

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