Learners over 21 years of age and in receipt of Social Welfare Payments for 6 months (156 days) or more may return to full-time education on any of the College courses and retain all their Social Welfare Allowances. Further details and application forms are available from local Social Welfare Offices.

Individuals will have different entitlements. Those in receipt of unemployment payments or means-tested Social Welfare benefits, and holders of Medical Cards and their dependents are entitled to free tuition. Other unwaged people with less than upper second level education will be entitled to a reduction in fees. The remainder will be charged full fees.