Free Fees Initiative
The State pays your tuition fees. You still pay the Student Contribution of €2,500 for 2026/27, which SUSI can cover in part or in full depending on household income.
Last checked October 2026
What it is
The State pays the tuition fees for eligible first-time, full-time undergraduates. You still pay the annual Student Contribution of €2,500 for 2026/27, though SUSI can pay some or all of it. Budget 2027 announced a permanent reduction of €150 in the Student Contribution, so check the official page for when the new amount applies.
Who can get it
- You are an EU, EEA, Swiss or UK national. A qualifying protection or immigration status also counts
- You have lived in the EU, EEA, Switzerland or the UK for at least 3 of the 5 years before starting your course
- You are a first-time, full-time undergraduate on an approved course of at least two years at a college on the HEA's eligible list. Colleges not on that list are not covered
- There is no application. Your college checks whether you qualify
- A second undergraduate degree is not covered. Neither is anyone who already has a postgraduate qualification
- Repeat years are not covered unless you had a certified serious illness or similar
- Moving up from a Level 6 or 7 qualification to Level 8 may qualify
- If an earlier unfinished course was State funded, that time is deducted unless you come back after a break of at least 5 years to study at the same level
How to apply
There is nothing to apply for. Your college assesses your eligibility when you register. If you also want help with the Student Contribution, apply to SUSI.
Go to the official page →Checked against the official source on 7 October 2026. Always confirm the details on the official page before applying.
Questions people ask
How much is the Student Contribution for 2026/27?
€2,500. It was cut permanently from €3,000. SUSI can pay some or all of it depending on your household income.
Does the Free Fees Initiative cover a second degree?
No. It is for first-time undergraduates. Moving up from Level 6 or 7 to Level 8 is the main exception.
Do I have to apply for free fees?
No. Your college checks whether you qualify when you register.
Are private colleges covered by free fees?
Only if the college is on the HEA's list of eligible institutions. A course being on the CAO does not make it eligible.
Related guides
- Bursary for Young People with Care Experience
- SUSI Student Grant
- Student Assistance Fund
- Fund for Students with Disabilities
- Tax relief on tuition fees
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