€400 million may not cover student grants

THE near €400 million put aside by the Department of Education for college grants might not be enough after applications have already been received for more than 92,000 students.

Latest figures from all 66 public bodies handling applications show that more than 59,000 first-time applicants sought funding, and another 33,000 previous recipients have submitted renewal applications.

The data from most councils and VECs reflects claims up to September 23, more than three weeks after the August 31 official closing date.