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Student grant reform delayed again as 2013 criteria remain in place

oloi midday 2026 03 05 3 word3 Student grant reform delayed again as 2013 criteria remain in place

Cyprus’ student grant reform is facing another delay, as the relevant bill has still not been submitted to parliament despite earlier commitments that it would be ready by last December.

With parliamentary elections approaching in May, the risk is growing that no amendments will be passed before the legislature dissolves. If so, this year’s grant cycle may again rely on the same income criteria introduced in 2013.

At the Education Committee, lawmakers argued that current thresholds no longer match today’s cost-of-living conditions and leave out families under genuine financial pressure.

Officials are also discussing a higher overall support budget and broader provisions for large families, but no final changes can move forward until the bill is formally tabled.

The committee says it is ready to fast-track the process once the text is submitted.