Info 4 Students
Starting College
Starting College
If you have accepted an offer for a third level course, congratulations! Below is a number of steps you will need to take now:
- Apply for a Maintenance Grant
- Formally register with the institution
- Pay the Student Services Charge
- Receive and read your Orientation Pack
- Get excited about starting college!
Here are some frequently asked questions about starting college:
Q. Why is college asking for me at least €1500?
A. As part of the EU initiative introduced by the Government, students pay a Student Charge/Registration Fee for the maintenance of college facilities, staff costs etc. This has been raised year on year and for 2008 -“ 2009 stands at approximately €1500. However, many institutions have additional levies that you are required to pay.
The Maintenance Grant will pay the Registration Fee but will not cover any additional, institution specific levies.
Q. When does everything start?
A. Many institutions have an "Orientation Week" before lectures while other institutions have this built into the first week of term. Your institution will send the dates for all of these to you. For more information, contact your local students' union.
Q. What is "orientation" about and what do I do?
A. Most importantly of all, this is the time when you officially register and get your student card and e-mail address. It is also your "giant leap" from secondary school into third level education. During this time, you join clubs and societies, are given Orientation Tours and are generally welcomed to the institution. It is great fun and there are many nights out where you can meet many new people.
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