Documentation required when applying for BTEA

I have been accepted (after an interview process) for a course in a third level institution.

At the interview one of the Tutors advised me to apply now for the Back to Education Allowance and that I would need a P21 - which I have requested.

However, on ringing the Dept. in Leitrim I was told that I have to wait until August to apply as even if I applied now it wouldn't be looked at. I was also told that it was subject to being approved if I was progressing in my career. I am applying for a course that a) I totally love and b) completely different to the area I was working in. I should add that the course is photography and I used to work as a legal p.a.

So the questions I am asking are -do I need a P21 and should I apply now as per the advise from my tutor at the college.

I should also add that I have been on Jobseeker's Benefit since last year, and my partner is on Disability pension due to ill health.

I don't think a P21 is required for a BTEA application.

Perhaps there is some confusion here between the BTEA and the County Council or VEC grant. A Council or VEC higher education grant (means tested) may also be available with the BTEA. They require a P21 and P60 (if applicable). Applications are made in August so it is best to have all the paper work done well in advance

Applications (means test) for the 09/10 academic year are based on all income of 08 but additional information will be considered if there have been serious changes in circumstances