An overview of the funding and funded support available to you in your studies. Advice about how and when to apply for this support.

Student Financial Assistance Fund

The Student Assistance Fund provides financial support to students who are experiencing short or long term financial difficulties while attending higher education. It is co-funded by the Irish Government and European Social Fund as part of the the ESF Programme for Employability, Inclusion and Learning 2014-2020. Click here for more information.

Finance at University

Whether or not you received, or felt you needed support during school or college, university life is very different from the type of study you have been used to and getting the right support in place can make your life a lot easier. The Fund for Students with Disabilities is intended to level the playing field for students who have disabilities, long-term conditions, mental health conditions, autism and specific learning difficulties like dyslexia and ADHD.

Students in our Autism&Uni surveys who told the university about their autism and got support early in their course were more likely to enjoy their time at university and graduate with good grades than those who didn’t get any support.

You can also choose to access support at any point throughout your studies, even if you haven’t previously told the university about your autism, or you receive a diagnosis of autism following commencement of your studies.

Your support can also be reviewed and amended at any time if you find your needs have changed during your course or the support you have in place is not really working for you.

The Cost of Living at College

The costs of college often come as a shock to students and parents alike therefore, it is important to be aware of your income and expenditure before you begin your year.  It is advisable to be aware of the living costs, whilst studying at university. The cost of living at home or away from home varies.   Financial wellness is important to all in order to be in a position to enjoy your time in university.  Preparing a budget prior to commencing your year, re-assessing it on a monthly basis and adjusting when necessary will assist you in this goal.

Click here for information on:

• Cost of attending university living away from home or living at home
• Sample monthly costs for both of above
• Template to complete your OWN BUDGET
• Possible ways to bridge the financial gap

Click here for information on Fee Waiver on Medical Grounds and Reduced Fees for First Year Transfer Students.

Information/links are provided here on the above, including the SUSI (Student Universal Support Ireland) and DCU scholarships.

AHEAD’s publication – Going to College: A Guide for Students with Disabilities, which you can access here.