Back to Education Allowance
Did you miss out on the chance to finish your Leaving Cert or go to college when you were younger?
If you're over 21 and on the dole then BTEA (Back to Education Allowance) could be for you. Think of it… a chance to enjoy student life for a few years. Just make sure you get those exams and you could open the door to a whole new world of opportunities.The BTEA is an educational opportunities scheme for unemployed people, lone parents and people with disabilities who are receiving benefit payments from the Department of Social and Family Affairs.
What's available?
There are two study options available, the Second level Option and the Third Level Option. The main conditions are that the course you apply for, whether it is a degree in Social Studies or the Junior Certificate, must be full-time and approved by the relevant education bodies.
To qualify for a Back to Education Allowance you must be:
At least age 21 (24 for an approved post graduate qualification) AND getting one of the following social welfare payments for at least:
Six months immediately before going for the Second Level Option (three months if you have been out of education for two years)
Twelve months immediately before going for the Third Level Option (nine months if you are assessed and approved by FÁS or a Facilitator from DSP)
- Unemployment Assistance
- Unemployment Benefit or Farm Assist
- One Parent Family Payment
OR
Aged 18 or over and getting one of the following social welfare payments for at least:
Six months immediately before going for the Second Level Option (three months if you have been out of education for two years)
Twelve months immediately before going for the Third Level Option (nine months if you are assessed and approved by FÁS or a Facilitator from DSP)
- Blind Pension
- Disability Allowance
- Invalidity Pension
- Unemployability Supplement
OR
Aged between 18 and 20 years AND out of formal education for two years and getting one of the following social welfare payments for at least:
Six months immediately before going for the Second Level Option (three months if you have been out of education for two years)
Twelve months immediately before going for the Third Level Option (nine months if you are assessed and approved by FÁS or a Facilitator from DSP)
- Unemployment Assistance or Unemployment Benefit
- One Parent Family Benefit
OR
In receipt of Disability Benefit for two years or more
How do I get started?
First up, contact your local second or third level school or college and ask for details of the courses available. Remember you can also get a copy of the CAO forms by visiting your local youth information centre. They can help you fill out any forms and give you practical advice if you need it.
It's your responsibility to get a place on the course of your choice. Don't leave it to the last few days, as panic is a recipe for bad decisions on your future. If you want to start a course in September of any given year then get on the case in January and get a plan together.
Remember, many college courses have places reserved for mature students (23+). These are often awarded on the basis of a personal interview so don't be put off applying for a course you have a real interest in. Get advice from your local youth centre. You may be able to contact colleges/universities from their office.
When you have been accepted on a course, you should visit your local Social Welfare Office. You will then be required to fill out a BTE 1 Form.
How is the BTEA paid?
If you are getting Unemployment Assistance, Unemployment Benefit or Farm Assist you will be paid a BTEA allowance equal to the maximum standard rate of unemployment benefit.
If you are getting a One Parent Family Payment you will also get paid BTEA at a rate equal to the maximum rate of your current social welfare payment.
BTEA is not an unemployment payment and participants are not required to sign on. You therefore have no excuses to miss classes or lectures, so set that alarm clock!
What about the cost of books and Third Level fees?
You are also entitled to an annual allowance towards the cost of your studies, in addition to your weekly payment. This allowance is usually paid in September at the start of each new academic year.
Am I entitled to any additional benefits?
You may also keep secondary benefits you already have e.g. Christmas bonus or rent supplement. You have to apply for a rent supplement from the Health Board in the area you will be studying in. This will only cover part of your rent, but you are also entitled to take up part time employment while at college.
A good resource for people with disabilities:
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