The Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship Programme is now open for applications for the 2026 academic year.
This prestigious initiative provides full scholarships, an annual stipend of €25,000, and direct research expenses of €3,750 per year to outstanding international students, fostering groundbreaking research and innovation both in Ireland and globally.
Scholarship Summary
- Host Country: Ireland
- Category: Postgraduate Scholarships | Masters Scholarships | PhD Scholarships
- Eligible Countries: All Countries
- Reward: Full Scholarship | Up to €34,000 Annual Funding Package
- Application Opens: September 11, 2025
- Deadline: October 23, 2025
Scholarship Details
The Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship Programme, funded by the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science and managed by the Council, is one of Ireland’s most competitive and distinguished awards.
Key features include:
- Prestigious, individual awards made in the applicant’s name.
- A fair and transparent selection process through international, independent peer review.
- Funding across all academic disciplines, from arts to sciences.
- Support for bottom-up, researcher-led projects (with exceptions for strategic partner-funded themes).
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, applicants must:
- Have no age restrictions for application.
- Be affiliated with, or admitted to, an eligible Irish higher education institution or research-performing body.
- Submit applications in either English or Irish.
- Not have made more than two unsuccessful applications to the relevant programme, regardless of institution or research changes.
Scholarship Benefits
Selected scholars will receive up to €34,000 per annum, which includes:
- €25,000 annual stipend.
- Contribution to tuition fees up to €5,750 per annum (non-EU students may request an additional €4,000).
- Eligible direct research costs of €3,250 per annum.
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare and submit the following:
- Academic certificates and transcripts.
- Study Plan / Statement of Purpose.
- Research Proposal.
- Passport copy.
- Supervisor details (if applicable).
- Two recommendation forms.
- Proof of language proficiency (if applicable).
- Any additional supporting documents.
How to Apply
- Review the official call documentation carefully to confirm eligibility.
- Apply to an eligible Irish Higher Education Institution or research programme.
- Submit your application via the online portal before the deadline.
- Upload two references via the portal.
- Submit early to avoid technical issues close to the deadline.
- Note: Applications cannot be edited or submitted after the deadline.
Assessment Process
Applicants will be evaluated based on:
- Outstanding academic track record.
- Strong communication and leadership skills.
- Evidence of participation in extracurricular activities (humanitarian work, arts, sports, politics, etc.).
- A clear motivation for studying in Ireland and how the scholarship aligns with long-term career goals.
Applications are first reviewed by higher education institutions for eligibility and alignment with strategic goals. Shortlisted candidates are then assessed by an independent panel of international experts.
To apply for this scholarship, click HERE
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