Government Scholarships for Students in Ireland
Ireland offers a variety of government-backed scholarship programs designed to help international students from all over the world pursue higher education in the country. These scholarships cater to students at different academic levels, including undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral studies. Below, we’ve compiled a list of the most notable scholarships available for students wishing to study in Ireland.
1. Government of Ireland International Education Scholarship (GOI-IES)
Managed by the Higher Education Authority (HEA), the Government of Ireland International Education Scholarship is targeted at high-achieving students from non-EU/EEA countries. This scholarship supports one year of study at the undergraduate, master’s, or PhD level.
Benefits:
- €10,000 stipend for one year
- Full waiver of tuition and registration fees
Eligibility:
- Excellent academic and personal achievements
- Strong rationale for choosing Ireland as a study destination
- Demonstrated leadership skills and commitment to societal development
Application Timeline:
- Opens: November
- Closes: March
2. Irish Research Council Postgraduate Scholarship Program
This program is designed to support international students who are pursuing master’s or doctoral degrees in Ireland, particularly those with a focus on high-quality research.
Benefits:
- €18,500 annual stipend
- Fee contribution up to €5,750 per year
- Research expense allowance of €3,250 per year
Eligibility:
- Open to students across all disciplines
- Strong academic and research potential
Application Timeline:
- Opens: September/October
3. Fulbright Ireland-USA Program
The Fulbright Ireland-USA Program is aimed at U.S. citizens who wish to pursue master’s or PhD studies or research in Ireland. This program promotes cultural exchange and mutual understanding between the two countries.
Benefits:
- Variable stipends depending on the program and field
- Networking opportunities and program support
Eligibility:
- U.S. citizens with strong academic records
- Proposals must align with Fulbright’s mission of mutual understanding
Application Timeline:
- Opens: April
- Closes: October
4. Erasmus+ Program
The Erasmus+ Program is available to students from the EU and associated countries, facilitating student exchange programs at Irish universities.
Benefits:
- Coverage of tuition fees
- Living expenses
- Additional travel grants
Eligibility:
- Enrollment at a partner institution
- Open to bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD students
Application Timeline:
- Varies by country and institution
5. Irish Aid Fellowship Training Program
This scholarship is intended for students from eligible developing countries who wish to pursue master’s programs aligned with Ireland’s foreign policy priorities, including sustainable development, climate change, and public health.
Benefits:
- Covers tuition fees, travel, accommodation, and living allowance
Eligibility:
- Open to students from eligible developing countries
- Applications are processed through Irish embassies
Application Timeline:
- Varies by embassy
6. IDEAS Scholarship Program
The IDEAS Scholarship Program focuses on enhancing the capacity of Vietnamese professionals through postgraduate education in Ireland.
Benefits:
- Covers tuition fees, travel, and living expenses
Eligibility:
- Open to Vietnamese professionals in eligible fields
Application Timeline:
- Varies
7. GREAT Scholarships
In partnership with the British Council, the GREAT Scholarships offer financial support to international students applying to specific fields at participating Irish universities.
Benefits:
- Scholarship amounts vary by institution and program
Eligibility:
- Open to international students applying to designated fields and institutions
Application Timeline:
- Varies by country and university
These scholarships provide a valuable opportunity for international students to gain a world-class education in Ireland. Be sure to check each scholarship’s eligibility criteria and application timelines to find the best fit for your academic and professional goals.
