AHSSL for Young Adult Applicants
If you're 21-years-old or younger on 1 January of the year you apply, you’ll need to meet specific access criteria and submit the required documentation. These criteria ensure the programme supports the goals of the National Access Plan 2022–2028, which aims to improve equity of access to higher education.
APPLY NOWto start in September 2025.
The closing date for young adult applications to AHSSL for the 2025/26 academic year is 4 July.
Access Criteria
To be eligible, you must meet at least three of the following:
- Attended a DEIS post-primary school for at least two years.
- Your household income in 2024 was €55,924 or less (Please provide evidence of this with your application under the Files Section for e.g. A Statement of Liability (formerly a P21) or Self-Assessment Chapter 4 or complete this Social Welfare Form.
- You or your family had a Medical/GP Visit Card valid on 31 December 2024 (Please provide evidence of this with your application i.e. a letter confirming that you are in receipt of a medical card/GP Visit Card or a copy of the valid card. It can be included in the Files Section of the application form).
- Your family received a means-tested social welfare payment for at least 26 weeks in 2024 (If this applies to you, please download this form. You can upload the completed form with your online application. It can be included in the Files Section of the application form).
- You live in an area classified as disadvantaged, very disadvantaged, or extremely disadvantaged.
- Your parents/guardians have not completed a higher education programme.
Are you already HEAR eligible for 2024 or 2025?
If so, all you need to do is provide proof of HEAR eligibility instead of meeting the criteria above.
To apply for AHSSL as a Young Adult you will need to complete the below forms. Please use this How to Apply: Step by Step Guide to assist you in completing the application.
Download Access Criteria & Forms
(opens in a new window)Access Criteria Information Sheet
(opens in a new window)Social Welfare Form
Have questions? We're here to help — email us at (opens in a new window)all@ucd.ie or see our Frequently Asked Questions.