O’Shea Encourages Students to Apply as SUSI Grants Open for 2026/27 Academic Year

Cork North West Fine Gael TD John Paul O’Shea has welcomed the opening of applications for the 2026/27 academic year under the Student Universal Support Ireland (SUSI) scheme, encouraging students and families across the constituency and beyond to apply as early as possible.

Deputy O’Shea said the latest round of SUSI supports, strengthened by measures announced in Budget 2026, will provide meaningful financial assistance to students pursuing further and higher education.

“I am very pleased to see SUSI now open for applications for the upcoming academic year. These grants play a vital role in ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent students from accessing education and achieving their full potential,” Deputy O’Shea said.

Among the key improvements announced for the 2026/27 Student Grant Scheme are:

• An increase in the income threshold for the Special Rate of maintenance grant from €27,400 to €28,600

• A rise in the income threshold for the €500 Student Contribution Grant from €115,000 to €120,000

• An increase of €500 in the Postgraduate Fee Contribution grant, bringing it to €4,500

• The exclusion of Disablement Benefit (when paid to the applicant) and Constant Attendance Allowance from household income calculations

• Increases to non-adjacent maintenance grants, including:

• €350 increase for the Special Rate

• €430 increase for Band 1

• €200 increase for Bands 2 to 4

“These changes represent a significant step forward in supporting students and their families with the rising cost of education and living expenses. In particular, the increase in income thresholds will mean more students qualify for support, while enhanced grant rates will provide additional financial relief,” Deputy O’Shea added.

Deputy O’Shea also urged applicants to be mindful of key deadlines to ensure their applications are processed on time:

Priority closing date for renewal applications is 11^th June 2026 & priority closing date for new applications is 9^th July 2026.

“I would strongly encourage both new applicants and those renewing their grants to submit their applications as early as possible. Early application helps ensure timely processing and avoids unnecessary delays ahead of the new academic year,” he said.

Deputy O’Shea concluded by reminding constituents that his office is available to assist with any queries regarding SUSI applications. “My office is always here to help guide students and families through the application process and to ensure they can access the supports available to them.”