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Mature Students

ALL of the courses at Inchicore College are suitable for mature students (ie over 23 yrs) and we actively encourage them to enrol. There is always a sizable mature student population in the college so you won’t be the only one!

We have found over the years that mature students bring a great deal to the courses they undertake and there are many personal rewards for people who return to full-time education. Students find the stimulation and excitement of learning and acquiring new knowledge and skills enormously rewarding. In addition, they gain great advantages of either new employment or entry to University or Institutes of Higher Education.

Mature students of Inchicore College courses are now completing university studies in colleges such as Trinity College Dublin, UCC, NUIM, Manchester Metropolitan University, Dublin Institute of Technology. Other students are employed by the Abbey Theatre, Gate Theatre, RTÉ, Aer Lingus, Ryanair, Eastern Health Board, St. Michaels House.

Watch these videos to hear what these mature students have to say about studying at ICFE as a mature student and their experiences during and after their courses.





Applicants may retain all their Social Welfare benefits, while pursuing courses, which lead to new skills and competencies.

Inchicore College in conjunction with City of Dublin ETB is pleased to offer the educational opportunities available under the following schemes of the Department of Social Protection:

Back to Education Allowance BTEA

The Back to Education Allowance (BTEA) is a scheme for unemployed people, lone parents and people with disabilities who are getting certain payments from the Department of Social Protection.

BTEA is not an unemployment payment.  If you are signing for unemployment credits or submitting medical certificates for illness credits, you may apply to take part in the scheme.

Courses must be full-time and lead to a certificate approved by QQI.

Vocational Training Opportunities Scheme (VTOS)

You can apply to join VTOS if you are:

  • aged 21 or over
  • receiving unemployment payments, signing for credits
  • or receiving certain other Social Welfare payments such as one parent family payment or disability allowances
  • You must qualify for six months before starting your course.

You will keep your Social Welfare entitlements. Courses are provided free of charge including books and materials.

Back to Education Initiative (Part-time) Courses

These courses are similar to the above but are run on a part-time basis. The part-time option is often a very effective way for adult learners to re-engage with education.