Hiya,
I'm currently a mature student and can back up both of the above posts with more detail - they're both spot on in their suggestions.
1. Check out the 'Back to Education' grant. If you do not have a degree already, you can avail of this....I think you have to be on social welfare for a couple of months before you can receive it. A number of mature students I know get this....unfortunately I can't as I have a degree already and am pursuing a degree in a different area. If that avenue isn't desireable, the local VEC give out grants...again with the stipulation that you do not have a primary degree already.
2. Go for the interest only option on your mortgage...in the first couple of years you are paying a sizeable amount of interest as opposed to the principle. This is what I'm doing....and yes, my lender is unaware of my status in that I bought a house with the interest only before I stopped working. As long as they get their money...they won't care! I intend to revert back to full mortgage payments after I qualify....another three years away.
The best of luck - the hardships endured will be worth it!
C71