The Government met this morning to consider plans to cut college fees, under new proposals to reduce the cost of third-level education.
Higher Education Minister Simon Harris also wants to see the grant system overhauled, so that more part-time students can access financial support.
As of yet, there is no plan to cut the annual contribution fee.
Formerly known as the Student Services Charge, most colleges charge an annual fee that covers student services and examinations.
The amount of the contribution varies from one institution to another - but the maximum rate for the 2022-2023 academic year is €3,000.
The Union of Students in Ireland says the government needs to consider either reducing or abolishing this charge.
A report published in 2016, found an additional 600-million euro a year would be needed for higher education by 2021, rising to an extra billion euro a year by 2030.
USI President, Clare Austick, says additional investment is needed on many levels:
"We cannot just focus on one element it has to be a holistic approach. Core funding for higher education institutions needs to look at the refurbishment of buildings, reducing the student contribution charge, increasing the SUSI Grant. and alleviating the stress of the extortionate accommodation for students as well".
