Student Loan compulsory course fees
If you need help to pay your compulsory course fees, you may be able to get a Student Loan, but you'll need to pay it back.
Fees Free study
If you start study in 2024, you may be able to get Fees Free to pay for your first year. If you can get Fees Free for your first year, you may not need a Student Loan to pay for your course fees. However, you’ll still need to apply for a Student Loan if you want course-related costs or living costs.
From 2025, Fees Free will be available for your final year of study instead (if you meet the criteria). You’ll need to pay for your course fees before you start your final year. The Fees Free scheme will then return the fees when you complete your qualification.
If you need help to pay your course fees, you may be able to get a Student Loan.
Fees Free is run by the Tertiary Education Commission. Check out the website for more information.