The Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship Programme is a prestigious and highly competitive funding opportunity that supports outstanding students pursuing full-time postgraduate research in any discipline. It is a fully funded scholarship program designed to attract high-caliber students from all over the world to pursue research-focused Master’s and PhD programs in Ireland. This scholarship offers a unique opportunity for students to study in one of Europe’s most vibrant and academically renowned countries, providing them with the financial support necessary to carry out independent research under the guidance of expert supervisors.
Administered by the Irish Research Council, the Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship Programme not only provides financial aid but also encourages innovation, creativity, and excellence in research. Scholars are expected to make significant contributions to global research in various fields, thereby enhancing Ireland’s international research reputation.
Details About Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship Programme 2025/2026
The Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship Programme offers full financial support to students undertaking research-based Master’s or PhD studies. Here are the key benefits of the scholarship:
- Stipend: A yearly stipend of €19,000 for up to four years, depending on the duration of the postgraduate program.
- Tuition Fees: Full coverage of tuition fees, including non-EU fees, up to a maximum of €5,750 per year.
- Research Expenses: An annual allowance of €3,250 is provided to cover direct research costs such as laboratory fees, travel expenses, and study-related materials.
- Duration:
- Master’s by Research: Up to 1-2 years of funding.
- Structured PhD: Up to 4 years of funding.
This program is widely recognized for its emphasis on supporting individual, pioneering research. In addition, the scholarship program is not restricted to specific academic disciplines, making it one of the most inclusive research scholarships in Europe.
Study Areas
The Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship Programme is open to students from all academic disciplines, including:
- Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
- Social Sciences
- Arts and Humanities
- Business and Economics
- Law
- Environmental Studies
The scholarship does not prioritize any specific field of study, encouraging applicants from diverse disciplines to propose innovative research projects that contribute to their respective fields of knowledge.
Scholarship Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship Programme 2025/2026, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Nationality: The scholarship is open to international students, EU citizens, and Irish nationals. Both EU and non-EU students can apply for this scholarship.
- Academic Qualifications:
- Applicants must hold, or expect to hold, a first-class or upper second-class honors degree (or its international equivalent) in their discipline.
- For PhD applicants, a Master’s degree may be required, depending on the university’s admission requirements.
- Research Proposal: Candidates must submit a well-structured and feasible research proposal that aligns with the expertise of a chosen supervisor and contributes to academic knowledge.
- Institutional Affiliation: Applicants must secure a place at an eligible Irish higher education institution and have the support of a qualified academic supervisor who will oversee their research.
- Language Proficiency: Non-native English speakers are required to provide evidence of English language proficiency through standardized tests like IELTS or TOEFL.
- Commitment to Full-Time Study: Applicants must commit to full-time postgraduate research studies for the duration of their scholarship.
Salary Scale for Postgraduate Students (Stipend Table)
| Category | Annual Stipend (EUR) | Tuition Fees (Maximum) | Research Allowance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Master’s by Research | €19,000 | €5,750 | €3,250 |
| PhD (Structured) | €19,000 | €5,750 | €3,250 |
| Research Expenses | N/A | N/A | €3,250 |
How to Apply for the Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship Programme?
The application process for the Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship Programme involves the following steps:
- Application Portal: Applicants must apply through the Irish Research Council’s Online Application System. First, create an account on the portal and fill in the necessary details.
- Select a Supervisor: Secure a qualified academic supervisor at an Irish institution who agrees to supervise your research. Your supervisor must be registered with the Irish Research Council.
- Research Proposal: Prepare a comprehensive research proposal that outlines your research objectives, methodology, and potential contribution to your field of study. Ensure that the research proposal fits within the expertise of your chosen supervisor.
- Submit Supporting Documents: Along with the application form, submit:
- Academic transcripts.
- Degree certificates (if available).
- Two academic reference letters.
- A statement of purpose or motivation letter.
- Proof of English proficiency (for non-native speakers).
- Deadlines: The application deadline typically falls in October of the previous year (for the 2025/2026 academic year). Ensure that all materials are submitted by this date to avoid disqualification.
- Review Process: Applications will be reviewed by an expert panel based on academic excellence, the quality of the research proposal, and the potential impact of the research.
there are other scholarships that you can apply at the moment which are open. these include
EASY SCHOLARSHIPS US
UNIVERSITY OF PISU SCHOLARSHIPS
Khalia university scholarship
UK FUULY FUNDED SCHOLARSHIP
Application Requirements and Documents
When applying for the Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship Programme, you will need to prepare and submit the following documents:
- Completed application form via the Irish Research Council’s online portal.
- Certified academic transcripts of your undergraduate and (if applicable) Master’s degrees.
- Research proposal outlining your research objectives, methods, and significance.
- Two academic references from professors who can attest to your academic potential and research skills.
- Proof of English proficiency, such as IELTS or TOEFL scores.
- CV or resume that highlights your academic and research experience.
Conclusion
The Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship Programme 2025/2026 offers an unparalleled opportunity for outstanding international and domestic students to conduct research in one of Europe’s leading academic environments. Fully funded and inclusive of all academic disciplines, this scholarship enables students to pursue innovative and impactful research that contributes to global knowledge. Whether you’re aiming to pursue a Master’s or PhD, this scholarship provides financial support and access to Ireland’s top-tier universities, world-class faculty, and research resources.
For students aspiring to become the next generation of researchers, scholars, and innovators, the Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship Programme is a pathway to academic success and professional growth. Apply now and take the next step in your research career!