The Ireland Government Postgraduate Scholarship 2026 is now open for applications! This prestigious program invites international students from all over the world to pursue Master’s or PhD studies at leading Irish institutions, in any discipline of choice.
Funded by the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science and managed by the Irish Research Council (IRC), this is one of the most competitive and highly regarded scholarship programs in Europe. If you’re aiming to advance your academic career in Ireland, this opportunity is for you.
Scholarship Details
- Host Country: Ireland
- Degree Levels: Master’s, PhD
- Who Can Apply: European and international students
- Deadline: October 23, 2025
Financial Benefits
The scholarship provides generous financial support, including:
- Total value: Up to €34,000 per year
- Breakdown:
- Stipend: €25,000
- Tuition fees: Up to €5,750 (including non-EU fees)
- Research expenses: €3,250 (direct costs)
- Stipend: €25,000
Duration of Funding
- Master’s by Research: Up to 2 years
- Doctoral (PhD): Up to 4 years
Participating Irish Universities
Successful applicants can study at some of the top institutions in Ireland, including:
- Trinity College Dublin
- University College Dublin
- University of Galway
- University of Limerick
- University College Cork
- Dublin City University
- Maynooth University
- Technological University Dublin
- South East Technological University
- Atlantic Technological University
- RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences
- …and many more recognized universities and institutes across Ireland.
Eligible Fields of Study
The scholarship covers all disciplines, such as:
- Engineering
- Humanities & Arts
- Business & Law
- Natural & Social Sciences
- Health Sciences
- General Sciences
Eligibility Criteria
- Open to all nationalities – including Ireland
- Academic Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree for Master’s applicants
- Master’s degree for PhD applicants
- Bachelor’s degree for Master’s applicants
- Final-year students awaiting results may apply with provisional certificates
- No age limit for applicants
- Supervisor required: Applicants must secure a supervisor in Ireland who agrees to support their research project
- English proficiency: While IELTS/TOEFL is not required by the IRC, individual institutions may request proof of proficiency
Application Timeline
- Call Opens: September 11, 2025
- FAQ Deadline: October 16, 2025
- Applicant Deadline: October 23, 2025
- Supervisor/Mentor Deadline: November 6, 2025
- Research Office Endorsement Deadline: November 13, 2025
- Results Announced: End of April 2026
- Program Start Date: September 1, 2026
How to Apply
- Review the official Call for Applications
- Secure a supervisor at a host institution in Ireland
- Complete the online application via the Irish Research Council portal
- Upload all required documents, including academic transcripts and endorsement by your host institution
Check other opportunities:
Study in Europe: Central European University Scholarships 2026 Open Now
Opportunity: Free Caregiving Essentials Online Course (Registration Opens October 14th)
