One third of students are facing serious financial strain. That's according to a new survey - which says many students are spending more than they earn and are being forced to rely on family to bridge the gap.
Almost a third of students are feeling significant financial pressure according to a new report by the Higher Education Authority. It blames rent as the biggest burden - with average student accommodation costing nearly €500 a month.
The report says many students are spending more than they earn and are having to rely on family to top them up. That's despite nearly two thirds of students having a job.
The report also says that the Pandemic has left its mark on students. Nearly 60% said their mental health had been affected - with female students suffering most.
Despite these struggles, students say they're generally happy and the report says there's been a rise in the number of students enrolling in college in recent years.