College grants ‘not enough’ for poor

GRANTS for college students from poorer backgrounds are not enough, particularly for those with children or disabilities, according to a major study of third-level access schemes.

The Higher Education Authority (HEA) National Office for Equity of Access to Higher Education found that grant schemes are not adequate and other funds are being used by students to supplement them.

While acknowledging significant increases in grants and other support over the past five years, the report suggests ways of improving funding for equity of access.