One third of students are facing serious financial problems.
That's according to a report this week by the Higher Education Authority, which says many students are spending more than they earn and are being forced to rely on family to bridge the gap.
Caolan Faux , Director of Youth Work Ireland for Cavan/Monaghan, says there's nothing new in this latest publication because young people have been "struggling" for some time now.
He highlighted how soaring rental costs and the inability of many young people to purchase a home continue to cause additional financial worries and stress.
Mr Faux added that despite the quality of third level courses available locally, many young people opt to live away from home to attend college and it is they who are struggling the most.
"In Cavan-Monaghan we have Monaghan Institute; we have Cavan Institute; and we have the National Learning Centre. We have really, really good courses close to home.
But we must be aware that for those who move away from home to go to university, that is seen as an important part of growing up. Now, it's not for everyone but it is seen as something that is part of our culture and is part of becoming an adult," said Mr Faux.
