BTEA - Question about applying

ShelTomato

I'm unemployed and have been signing on for about 9 months now. I am finding it very difficult to find work (as is everyone else, I know!) and I feel especially at a disadvantage because I have no formal qualifications at all. I have been looking at a great course that looks perfect for my goals, the only thing is it costs €3450 for the year. I was advised (by a friend) that if I am still unemployed in 3 months time I will qualify for either BTEA or a student grant to help cover the course cost. Thing is, I was told that the SW won't even discuss BTEA or grants with me unless I have been formally accepted to the course but in order to be accepted, I must pay a deposit of €600! Does anyone have any experience with this kind of situation, or any advice on student aid in general?

Sue Ellen

That's not correct you can apply for BTEA without having be offered the course. They should be able to give you a decision based on the level of the course and the other relevant factors such as your age, length of time on claim, length of time since last formal education.
You can't get both both BTEA and the grant. You can apply to have your fees paid if going for BTEA. From this year there is no cost of education allowance (book allowance).

bri007

I have been unemployed for two years, I might of got a job for 11-22 hours a week max. I want to go back to college in September, would this jobs affect me getting the back to education in September?

Sue Ellen

Assuming you are still claiming this work should not hinder your BTEA application.

bri007

Thanks for getting back to me.yes I hope to be able to get the rest of the days from social welfare.the job is 1 to 2 days max so will hopefully be able to claim the 3 days on the jobseekers allowance.just wanted to make sure I can still get back to education in September along with my part time job

Sue Ellen wrote: »

Assuming you are still claiming this work should not hinder your BTEA application.