Student costs
A growing number of students are being forced to skip their lectures and take up a job instead due to rising student costs.
A new survey by the Irish League of Credit Unions reveals more than two thirds of them are struggling financially at college.
55% of those surveyed say they are missing their lectures in favour of paid work - that's up 22% on 2017
On average, students are working almost 15 hours a week (14.8 hours) and earning just over €10 an hour (€10.14).
Students living away from home are spending €1,047 per month; €309 more per month than those living at home who say they are spending an average of €738.
Students say their biggest monthly expense is, unsurprisingly, rent at an average of €318 a month.
This is followed by food at €116. Students are spending €88 each month on travel costs and €74 on utility bills.
Just over half of students say they receive a monthly allowance from their parents or family to help cover costs they incur. On average, they receive €202 per month.
