BTEA - Back to education allowance?

L

lulu

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I've just started a third level course and for the past few years have been signing for credits. I was made redundant a few years ago and received Unemployment Benefit for a while until it became means tested. Since then they switched me to credits. During that time I did a full time FAS course for 6 months. I haven't worked in the past 2 year period. However when I went to inform SW that I was doing this course they gave me the BTEA application form to fill in to allow me continue to sign for credits.

However when I looked up the details on www.welfare.ie it appears I might be entitled to it. I have small children in primary school and have to organise childcare to do the course. My other half is working full time. My question is do you you think I qualify for BTEA? Is it means tested? If not is there any other allowance I can claim for - VEC grant or a 'Millennium' grant which I've just heard about.

One thing I noticed on the SW leaflet is that people with post graduate qualifications do not apply for BTEA. I have a post grad qual in a completely different field to my current studies. Does this disqualify me?

Thanks for any advice.
 
The rules stipulate that 'You will not get the BTEA if you already hold a postgraduate qualification.' But you could call the LoCall Information Line at 1890 66 22 44 to double-check.

You can find out more about the Millennium Partnership Fund (and other financial supports) .
 
To can qualify to sing for credits if your BTEA application is approved. However, from what you say, you probably won't get the BTEA credit option as you are doing a course that has a qualification award lower than that which you already hold. No harm in applying though, as it depends on whther the course youa re doing now enhances your chances of getting work.
 
Thanks for that - really useful info there. I've sent in the forms so will post back when the decision comes back.
 
Happy to report I've just been approved for BTEA. Needless to say I'm over the moon!! Really didn't expect to get it. It must definitely be on a case to case basis.
 
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