Study in Ireland with the Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship Program
If you’re considering studying in Ireland, this guide provides essential details about the Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship Program. We’ll walk you through the process and share everything you need to know to apply successfully.
Overview of the Scholarship Program
The Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship Program is a standout initiative in Ireland’s academic landscape, offering unique opportunities for funded postgraduate education. It supports research across all disciplines and is designed to complement other funding avenues within Ireland.
Scholarship Summary
- Institution(s): Government of Ireland
- Courses Offered: Open to all disciplines
- Levels of Study: Master’s and Doctoral
- Study Location: Ireland
- Program Duration:
- 1-2 years for research master’s programs
- 3-4 years for PhD programs
- Application Deadline: October 12, 2024 (applications open in September)
- Eligibility: Open to international students
Scholarship Benefits
Recipients of the Government of Ireland Scholarship enjoy the following:
- A stipend of €19,000 per annum
- Coverage of tuition fees, including non-EU fees, up to €5,750 per annum
- €3,250 per annum for eligible direct research expenses
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet these requirements to qualify for the 2025 scholarship:
General Criteria
Nationality: Open to applicants from all countries.
Language: Proficiency in English is required.
New Entrants: Applicants must be new to the degree for which funding is sought and formally accepted by the relevant institution.
Specific Criteria
For research master’s applicants:
-
- Must not hold or have previously held a Council Postgraduate Scholarship.For PhD applicants:
- Must not hold or have previously held a Council Postgraduate Scholarship except for one leading to a research master’s degree.
- Must not hold or have previously held a Council Postgraduate Scholarship.For PhD applicants:
- Applicants may not have had more than two prior unsuccessful applications, including within strategic partner themes.
- Applicants must fall under one of two categories based on nationality and residency:
- Category I: Citizens of EEA member states or Switzerland who have lived in these areas for at least 3 of the 5 years preceding October 1st.
Application Process
Follow these steps to apply:
- Register Online:
Create an account and complete the registration form. Submit your details, and you’ll receive a confirmation email with your username and password. - Log in to the Online System:
Use your credentials to access the application portal. - Fill Out Your Application:
Create and edit your application before the deadline. Submit once completed.
Background on the Program
The Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship Program distinguishes itself by:
- Supporting non-directed, bottom-up research (excluding strategic partner-funded projects).
- Funding research across all disciplines.
- Employing a peer-reviewed, objective selection process.
- Offering prestigious awards to individual researchers.
List of Approved Universities
The scholarship covers study at institutions such as:
- Trinity College Dublin
- University College Dublin
- University of Limerick
- Dublin City University
- National University of Ireland, Galway
- Cork Institute of Technology
- Griffith College, Dublin
- And many more
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can applicants with two previous unsuccessful applications apply again?
A: No. If you have had two unsuccessful applications, you are ineligible.
Q: Are there additional restrictions for applicants?
A: Applicants cannot hold dual citizenship, be married, or have children. The program evaluates academic performance from the past three years.
Q: Where can I find more information?
A: Contact your local Irish embassy or consulate for details. Check the official website for application deadlines specific to your region.