The Irish Government Scholarship 2026 is one of the most prestigious fully funded scholarships for international students pursuing postgraduate studies in Europe. Funded by the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science and administered by Research Ireland, this scholarship aims to attract top-tier talent to Irish universities for Master’s by Research and PhD programs. With full tuition coverage, a substantial stipend, and research funding, recipients can pursue their academic and research goals with complete financial support.
Program Levels and Duration
The Irish Government Scholarship supports:
- Master’s by Research: Typically up to 2 years.
- PhD Programs: Up to 4 years of funding for new entrants.
Applicants must be new entrants to their postgraduate degree or have completed only the first year. Registrations before 1 September 2025 are ineligible unless a documented career break applies.
Fields of Study:
The scholarship is inclusive across disciplines, supporting research in:
- Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
- Business, Finance, and Economics
- Social Sciences and Humanities
- Arts, Literature, and Interdisciplinary Studies
For students interested in similar fully funded research opportunities in Europe, you may also explore:
- KU Leuven Scholarship 2026 in Belgium – Funding Opportunities
- Nottingham Trent University International Scholarships 2026 – Study in the UK
Eligibility Criteria
To apply, candidates must meet several requirements:
- Academic Qualification:
- Bachelor’s degree with first-class or upper second-class honours or equivalent.
- A master’s degree may substitute if necessary.
- Bachelor’s degree with first-class or upper second-class honours or equivalent.
- Affiliation: Must have a confirmed supervisor at an eligible Irish higher education institution.
- Research Proposal: Must present a well-structured and original research proposal.
- Compliance: Must follow Research Ireland’s policies, including submission deadlines, originality, and ethical standards.
- English Proficiency: Demonstrable ability to study in English, typically through IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent.
- Nationality: Open to international students from non‑EU/EEA countries.
Scholarship Coverage & Benefits
The Irish Government Scholarship 2026 offers a comprehensive funding package designed to fully support international students throughout their postgraduate studies:
| Component | Amount / Details |
| Annual Stipend | €25,000 for living expenses, allowing students to focus on study and research without financial pressure. |
| Tuition Fees Contribution | Up to €5,750 per annum, covering non-EU tuition fees. |
| Research Expenses | €3,250 annually for direct research costs, including materials, travel, and equipment. |
| Total Maximum Funding | Up to €34,000 per annum. |
This package ensures that students can cover living costs, tuition, and essential research expenses, allowing them to fully concentrate on their academic and research goals.
Participating Institutions
Applicants can study at a range of Ireland’s top universities and research institutions, including:
- Trinity College Dublin (TCD)
- University College Dublin (UCD)
- University of Galway
- University College Cork (UCC)
- Dublin City University (DCU)
- Maynooth University
- Technological University Dublin
- Munster Technological University
- Atlantic Technological University
- Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI)
This diverse pool allows students to select the program that best aligns with their academic and professional goals.
Application Process
To apply for the Irish Government Postgraduate Scholarship 2026, candidates must follow these essential steps:
- Complete the Eligibility Quiz
Before accessing the application form, applicants must pass a preliminary eligibility quiz on the official Research Ireland online system. This step ensures that all basic eligibility criteria are met. - Prepare Required Documents
Gather all necessary documents, including academic transcripts, a detailed CV, a compelling research proposal, a statement of purpose, and recommendation letters. Ensure that all materials are accurate, original, and adhere to the specified word limits. - Secure Supervisor and Research Office Endorsements
Obtain confirmation from a qualified academic supervisor at an eligible Irish higher education institution. Additionally, secure endorsement from the research office of the proposed institution, confirming their support for your application. - Submit the Application Online
Complete and submit your application through the official Research Ireland portal. Ensure that all sections are thoroughly completed and that all required documents are uploaded before submission. - Adhere to Application Guidelines
Ensure that your application is original, complete, and within the specified word limits. Applications that do not meet these standards may be deemed ineligible.
Tips to Maximize Your Chances
- Strong Academic Record: High grades and prior research achievements are essential.
- Compelling Research Proposal: Highlight originality, feasibility, and potential impact.
- Early Preparation: Gather all documents well ahead of deadlines.
- Supervisor Alignment: Select supervisors whose research expertise aligns closely with your proposal.
- Highlight Leadership & Extra Achievements: Include community engagement, publications, or awards.
Key Deadlines to Remember
Keeping track of important dates is crucial for a successful application. Here are the key milestones for the Irish Government Scholarship 2026:
- Application Launch – The portal opens for submissions in mid-September 2025.
- Applicant Submission Deadline – All applications must be completed and submitted online by late October 2025.
- Supervisor Review – Academic supervisors must endorse applications by early November 2025.
- Institutional Endorsement – Research offices at participating universities must submit their endorsements by mid-November 2025.
- Announcement of Results – Successful candidates will be notified around April 2026.
- Scholarship Commencement – The program officially begins in September 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is eligible to apply?
- Open to international students from non-EU/EEA countries with a strong academic record, a confirmed supervisor, and English proficiency.
2. What does the scholarship cover?
- Provides up to €34,000 per year, including a €25,000 stipend, tuition coverage, and €3,250 for research expenses.
3. How do I apply?
- Complete the eligibility quiz, prepare the required documents, secure a supervisor endorsement, and submit your application online.
4. What are the key deadlines?
- Applications open in September 2025, close in October 2025, supervisor and institutional endorsements in November 2025, results announced in April 2026, and the scholarship starts in September 2026.
5. Can I apply if I’m already enrolled?
- Yes, if you are a new entrant to a Master’s by Research or PhD program, or have completed only the first year.
Conclusion
The Irish Government Scholarship 2026 offers full financial support for ambitious international students ready to excel in research. With tuition, stipend, and research funding covered, it’s your chance to study at Ireland’s top universities and make your mark globally.
Don’t wait—secure your supervisor, perfect your proposal, and submit your application to claim this life-changing opportunity.