Ireland unveils €34M student support package to reduce college costs and boost SUSI grants
Ireland’s Budget 2027 includes a €34 million student support package announced by Minister James Lawless. The plan permanently cuts the student contribution fee by €150 and raises SUSI maintenance grants by 4.5% from January 2027. It also introduces new grants for families with multiple students in higher education.
The €34 million package was announced on 7 October 2026 by Minister James Lawless as part of Budget 2027. It pairs affordability measures with access and inclusion supports, including help for student parents and placement-related costs. The fee reduction is permanent, while the SUSI maintenance increase begins in January 2027.
Families with combined incomes up to €150,000 and multiple higher education students may receive a €500 contribution grant per eligible student from September 2027. Officials estimate about 11,000 students could benefit. Apprentices are also expected to see fees reduced proportionally, with 16,000 beneficiaries.
The measures could ease cost pressures for tens of thousands of students and families, potentially widening participation among lower-income and multi-student households. Apprentices may also face lower upfront costs, which could support skills pathways. However, because grants and fee cuts are means-tested or targeted, the overall effect may depend on take-up, eligibility, and whether living costs continue to rise. Colleges and support services might see changing demand as affordability improves.