Education
Back to Education Allowance
Lets unemployed people, lone parents and people with disabilities return to full-time education while keeping a welfare-equivalent payment.
AmountPayment + €500study while on welfare
Who runs itDept of Social Protection
Best forPeople returning to education
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Work out your grant
A quick estimate. Not a guarantee — always confirm on the official source.
What it is
You keep a payment at your previous rate while you study, plus a €500 Cost of Education Allowance if you have a dependent child.
How much you can get
Payment + €500 study while on welfare.
Who can get it
Generally aged 21+ (24+ for postgraduate), getting a qualifying payment for 3 months (second level) or 9 months (third level), on an approved course.
What you’ll need
- Proof of your qualifying payment
- Your course offer
How to apply
- Get a course place
- Complete form BTE1 before the course starts
- Submit it to the Department of Social Protection
Official source: Citizens Information — BTEA. Figures current June 2026. This is a free guide, not a government service — always confirm on the official page.