Student Universal Support Ireland (SUSI) is now accepting applications for the 2018/2019 academic year.

SUSI are encouraging students, both new applicants and those progressing to the next year of their course, to make their application as soon as possible to assist in timely processing.

Last year the national student grant awarding body approved over 20,000 new applicants prior to CAO offers.

SUSI Communications and Information Services Manager Aoife Greene says: “We advise students to visit our website www.susi.ie and use our Eligibility Reckoner before making their application. This will give them an indication as to their eligibility for student grant funding. We also have a number of self-help tools available on our website, including videos and detailed guidance notes for making an application.

“It is important to reiterate that students who are progressing to the next year of their course must renew their grants and we have e-mailed students in the lead up to opening to inform them of the process for renewing.”

The priority closing date for renewal applications is 14th June, 2018.

“In relation to new applicants, last year we had awarded over 20,000 new applicants prior to CAO offers. This alleviated an element of financial uncertainty that had previously existed for new students. To ensure a continuation of this we would encourage all students to submit their application as soon as possible. They do not need to have their Leaving Certificate results, or to have accepted a course, in order to submit an application.”

The priority closing date for new applications is 12th July 2018.

“We would also encourage all students who apply to ensure prompt submission of any documents that SUSI may request as this will assist in the timely processing of their applications.

“We are aware this can be a stressful time for students and their families and we are committed to engaging with them to ensure that all applications can be processed as smoothly and efficiently as possible.”

For more, visit susi.ie