Advance your postgraduate studies in Ireland with the prestigious Government of Ireland Scholarship, now accepting applications. This fully funded program supports international students aiming to pursue advanced education in Ireland. In this guide, you’ll find a clear overview of the scholarship’s benefits and a step-by-step explanation of the application process to help you succeed.
The Government of Ireland Scholarship for the 2025-2026 academic year provides generous financial assistance for postgraduate studies. Successful applicants receive an annual living allowance of €19,000, tuition fee coverage (including non-EU fees) up to €5,750 per year, and funding for eligible research expenses up to €3,250 per year. This support helps students focus fully on their studies and research without worrying about financial challenges.
Managed by the Council and funded by the Department of Education and Skills, the Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship Program is a flagship initiative in Ireland’s education system. It offers a unique opportunity within the Irish academic world and complements other funding options available for postgraduate education. This program is an ideal chance for international students to grow academically while contributing to Ireland’s vibrant academic community.
What Does the Government of Ireland Scholarship Cover?
The Government of Ireland Scholarship provides extensive support to help students succeed during their postgraduate studies.
- Annual Stipend: Scholars receive €19,000 each year to cover living expenses such as housing, food, and daily needs. This financial aid allows recipients to concentrate fully on their studies and research without financial worries.
- Tuition Fee Support: The scholarship includes a contribution of up to €5,750 annually toward tuition fees, including fees for non-EU students. This helps make postgraduate education in Ireland more affordable, especially for international students.
- Research Funding: Scholars are provided with up to €3,250 per year for eligible research costs. This funding covers expenses like materials, equipment, and other resources needed for their research work, ensuring they can complete high-quality projects effectively.
This comprehensive support makes the Government of Ireland Scholarship an excellent opportunity for postgraduate students.
Eligibility Criteria for the Government of Ireland Scholarship
To qualify for the Government of Ireland Master’s and Doctoral Scholarship, applicants must meet these requirements:
- Language Requirement: Applicants must be proficient in English.
- Eligible Countries: Open to applicants from all countries around the world.
- Educational Qualifications: Applicants should have a first-class or upper second-class honours bachelor’s degree or an equivalent qualification. If undergraduate results are not available at the time of application, a provisional offer may be made, provided the required degree classification is achieved. Alternatively, applicants with a master’s degree may also qualify if they do not meet the bachelor’s degree criteria. The Council’s decision on eligibility is final.
- Previous Applications: Applicants cannot have previously submitted two unsuccessful applications to this scholarship program, including applications under any strategic partner themes.
- Program Admission: Applicants must be newly admitted to the degree program for which they are seeking funding and must have formal acceptance from the relevant department or school.
- Scholarship Eligibility:
- For research master’s scholarships, applicants must not currently hold or have held a Council Postgraduate Scholarship.
- For PhD scholarships, applicants must not currently hold or have held a Council Postgraduate Scholarship, except for one supporting a research master’s degree.
- Residency and Nationality:
- Category I: Applicants must be citizens of an EEA member state or Switzerland and must have lived in an EEA member state or Switzerland for at least 3 out of the 5 years before October 1st.
How to Apply for the Government of Ireland Scholarship?
Follow these simple steps to apply for the scholarship:
- Register Online: Sign up on the scholarship portal by completing the registration form as directed.
- Submit Registration: Once the form is filled out, click the ‘submit’ button. A confirmation email with your username and password will be sent to you.
- Login and Apply: Use the login details from the confirmation email to access the system. From there, you can create, update, and submit your application before the deadline.
List of Approved Universities You Can Apply To
- Dun Laoghaire Institute of Art, Design, and Technology
- Dundalk Institute of Technology
- Galway Business School
- Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology
- Griffith College, Dublin
- Athlone Institute of Technology
- College of Computing Technology, Dublin
- Cork Institute of Technology
- Dublin Business School
- Dublin City University
- ICD Business School, Dublin
- Independent College, Dublin
- Institute of Technology, Carlow
- Institute of Technology, Sligo
- Institute of Technology, Tralee
- National College of Art and Design, Dublin
- National College of Ireland, Dublin
- National University of Ireland, Galway
- Letterkenny Institute of Technology
- Limerick Institute of Technology
- Mary Immaculate College, Limerick
- Maynooth University
- The National University of Ireland, Maynooth
- Royal College of Surgeons
- Technological University for Dublin
- Trinity College Dublin
- University College Cork
- University College Dublin
- University of Limerick
- Waterford Institute of Technology
Conclusion
The Government of Ireland Scholarship 2025 is a prestigious opportunity for international students looking to pursue postgraduate studies in Ireland. This fully funded program offers significant financial support, including a stipend, tuition fee coverage, and funding for research costs. It aims to encourage academic excellence and help talented individuals from around the world further their education in various fields.
With complete financial assistance and access to Ireland’s top universities, this scholarship not only boosts academic and career opportunities but also fosters cultural exchange and global growth. For eligible students who are passionate about making a difference in their fields, this scholarship provides an excellent chance to advance their education and research careers.