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80% Learner Fee Subsidy Now Open for Applications

12 Jun 2026

Applications are now open for the Microcredential Learner fee Subsidy which offers an 80% reduction in fees on selected microcredentials for eligible learners

UCC Awarded Funding for 185 Microcredential Places Through New Learner Fee Subsidy 

• 11 Microcredentials at UCC have been awarded funding  

• 185 learners can avail of an 80% fee subsidy to upskill in sector-specific key skills  

• Applications are open until 31 July 2026  

ÉîÒ¹ÑÇÖÞ¸£Àû¾Ã¾Ã College Cork (UCC) has been awarded funding for 185 learner places across 11 microcredentials following the relaunch of the Higher Education Authority’s (HEA) Microcredential Learner Fee Subsidy.  

The subsidy provides eligible learners with an 80% reduction in course fees, helping to make university-accredited learning more accessible to those seeking to upskill, reskill or develop expertise in areas of skills demand.  

The funded microcredentials span levels 7-9 on the National framework of qualifications and carry 5-10 credits. Delivered part-time over approximately 12 weeks, they are designed to support adult learners in balancing study alongside work and other commitments.  

The 11 funded programmes cover a range of skills in areas including engineering, sustainability, architecture, neurodiversity and biopharmaceuticals, reflecting areas of current and emerging skills need across the economy.  

Applications for all funded microcredentials are now open through the Springboard+ website. Prospective applicants should review the eligibility criteria before applying.

See the full list of funded programmes can be seen here: Microcredential Learner Fee Subsidy - 80% Funded

Applications close on 31 July 2026.