Conor Skehan: As the father of six graduates, I know third-level fees are a distraction from students' real problems
Briefly

Students in higher education increasingly face significant living expenses that overshadow tuition fees. Families managing these costs often spend around €6,000 annually for students living at home, which includes essential expenses like transport, food, and social activities. For those relocating to attend college, expenses are substantially higher, reaching averages of €12,000 or more, with accommodation costs alone ranging from €6,000 to €8,000. These escalating living expenses challenge students' ability to focus and succeed academically, making financial stress a crucial issue in higher education.
Every week, students and their families face costs that do far more damage than fees but rarely make headlines. For students living at home, annual costs average €6,000, covering transport, food, books and social expenses.
For those who must move away, costs nearly double to €12,000 or more, with accommodation alone often costing €6,000-€8,000.
Read at Independent
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