Student Contribution Fee Breakdown
- Nov 19, 2016
- 1 min read
Although tuition fees are primarily covered by the government (as we’ve discussed in previous blog posts), students are still expected to pay a rather large “contribution fee” (sometimes known as the ‘student service charge’ or ‘registration fee’) at the beginning of each academic year. Under the current model, this fee can be as much as €3000, depending on the institution. This fee is regulated by the Department of Education and Skills, and adheres to a very strict set of guidelines as to use of contributions. So, what exactly does it cover?
Student support services are paid for through this fee. These are the professionals on campus providing students with help on a wide range of topics: Issues related to health, accommodation, finances, etc…
The fee also helps fund the Students Union, whose job is to make sure students’ voices are heard; as well as, provide services such as: Organising events, raising awareness for certain causes, providing free condoms, among others. The contribution fee covers the membership costs for all students, meaning students remain members from registration to graduation.
Clubs and Societies also receive their funding from the contribution fee. This covers costs for events, equipment and any trips they might organise.
It also covers minor costs that most students probably take for granted. This includes things like, the registration process, access to examinations, and graduation events.
Importantly, we must list items not covered by the student contribution fee. These would include: Costs of lectures, tutorials, seminars, any equipment the college requires, as well as, lecturers and tutors. These services are directly covered by the state.
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