Choosing the right course and understanding the financial aspects of higher education are key considerations for CAO students. The Free Fees Initiative plays a crucial role in making education more accessible, and at National College of Ireland, this aligns with our core belief in providing quality education to all, regardless of financial background.
This guide will outline the Free Fees Initiative, the courses covered, additional costs, and where you can find more information.
What is the Free Fees Initiative?
The Free Fees Initiative is a government-funded programme designed to remove financial barriers for students pursuing higher education in Ireland. It allows eligible full-time undergraduate students to have their tuition fees covered, making education more accessible.
The criteria for determining eligibility, as outlined by the Higher Education Authority, are as follows:
- Residency Requirement: Student must have lived in an EU, EEA, or Swiss state for at least three of the five years before starting their course.
- Nationality Requirement: Student must be an EU/EEA/Swiss national or hold official refugee, subsidiary protection, or leave-to-remain status
- Course Eligibility: Student must be enrolling in a full-time undergraduate programme of at least two years in duration and must not have already completed a third-level degree
For full eligibility details, visit NCI’s Free Fees Initiative page.
Why is the Free Fees Initiative Important?
At NCI, we are committed to educational accessibility and ensuring that financial constraints do not prevent students from achieving their academic and career aspirations. Education is a powerful tool for personal and professional growth, and this initiative helps more students access degree programmes without the financial burden.
The Free Fees Initiative supports:
- Wider Access to Higher Education: Students who might otherwise struggle to afford third-level tuition fees can now pursue a degree.
- Reduced Financial Pressure: Students and their families can focus on learning rather than worrying about tuition fees.
- Greater Career Opportunities: Graduates benefit from strong employment prospects without the stress of entering debt or repaying large student loans.
- A More Skilled Workforce: By making education more accessible, Ireland benefits from a highly skilled and diverse workforce.
At NCI, we believe in breaking down barriers in third-level education, and this initiative aligns with our mission to support students from all backgrounds.
Courses Covered Under the Free Fees Initiative at NCI
Several full-time undergraduate courses at NCI qualify under this scheme, allowing students to access industry-focused education in areas with strong career prospects.
Higher Certificate Programmes
Bachelor’s Degree Programmes
- BA (Honours) in Marketing Practice
- BA (Honours) in Business
- BA (Honours) in Accounting and Finance
- BA (Honours) in Human Resource Management
- BSc (Honours) in Data Science
- BSc (Honours) in Computing
NCI’s CAO programmes provide students with practical skills, work placement opportunities, and excellent employment prospects upon graduation.
Courses That Require Payment
While many programs qualify for the Free Fees Initiative, some require student fees. At NCI, the BA (Hons) in Psychology and BA (Hons) in Early Childhood Education and Care are not covered under this initiative. However, students interested in these in these programmes may qualify for the Student Grand Scheme (SUSI) which can help offset costs.
For students considering these programmes, it is recommended to check available funding options through SUSI or visit NCI’s Full-Time Undergraduate Fees FAQs for more details.
Additional Costs to Consider
Even for students benefiting from the Free Fees Initiative, these are some costs to keep in mind:
- Student Contribution Charge: This charge applies to all full-time undergraduate students and is currently set at €3,000 per academic year.
- Gym Charge: Full-time undergraduate students will be required to pay €80 for membership of the gym on NCI campus.
- Living Expenses: Accommodation, transport, course materials, and general living costs should also be factored into financial planning.
NCI offers a number of financial supports to students who need help with college expenses while studying at the college, including a laptop loan scheme, sports scholarship and student assistance fund. More information on these can be found on Financial Support at NCI.
Why Choose NCI?
At NCI, we are dedicated to providing high-quality, industry-relevant education that is accessible to all. Our strong connections with leading employers, focus on employability, and commitment to student success make us a top choice for those looking to build a solid foundation for their future.
With the Free Fees Initiative, students can pursue a degree at NCI without the financial burden of student fees, allowing them to focus on their studies and career development.
By choosing NCI, students gain access to top-tier education, strong career prospects, and a supportive learning environment, ensuring they are well-prepared for success in their chosen field. To learn more about the college, check out "10 Reasons to Study at National College of Ireland."
For further information on CAO applications, funding options, and student supports, visit the NCI CAO Hub or contact our admissions team.
