Are you a high-achieving student looking to pursue postgraduate studies in Ireland?
The Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship Programme provides an incredible opportunity to fund your Master’s or PhD at an Irish higher education institution.
These prestigious scholarships, offered by the Irish Research Council, support students across all disciplines to conduct cutting-edge research and further their academic careers.
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About the Scholarships
Ireland Scholarships: Fully Funded Master’s & PhD Programs for 2024
The Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship Programme aims to cultivate world-class research and expertise across all disciplines.
It enables exceptional students from Ireland and around the world to pursue postgraduate degrees at Ireland’s top universities and technological institutes.
The scholarships are awarded on the basis of excellence and support groundbreaking research aligned with Ireland’s strategic priorities.
Key details of the scholarships:
- Open to both Irish and international students
- Fund Master’s and PhD degrees in all disciplines
- Tenable at eligible Higher Education Institutions in Ireland
- Include an annual stipend of €22,000
- Provide a contribution to fees of up to €5,750 per year
- Allocate €3,250 per year for eligible direct research expenses
Click here to learn more about the scholarship value and benefits.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for a Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Have a first or upper second-class honours bachelor’s degree or equivalent
- For the Doctoral degree scholarship, applicants must not currently hold or have previously held a Council scholarship for a Doctoral degree
- For the Research Master’s scholarship, applicants must not currently hold or have previously held any Council scholarship
- Must not be registered for a Master’s or PhD prior to the start date of the scholarship
- Agree to comply with the Terms and Conditions of the scholarship
- Meet the English language requirements of the host institution
There are no restrictions on nationality. However, successful applicants must:
- Maintain their principal residence in Ireland during the scholarship
- Satisfy the State’s regulations on immigration and have the support of their host institution with respect to these regulations and requirements if not a national of a member state of the European Union (EU).
How to Apply
Applications for the 2024 Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship Programme will open in Q3 2024. Interested candidates must submit their application via the online system by the deadline of 10 October 2024.The application involves the following steps:
- Identify an eligible Irish Higher Education Institution and potential supervisor for your Master’s or Doctoral degree. Engage with them to discuss your research project and potential application.
- Create an account on the online application system. Complete the online application form and provide details of your qualifications, research proposal, and personal statement.
- Provide two academic references. Your referees must submit their forms through the online system by the application deadline.
- Submit your final application by 10 October 2024. No late applications will be accepted.
Evaluation Criteria
Applications will be evaluated by independent, international assessors based on the following criteria:
- Project: Quality and originality of the proposed research, suitability of the proposed methodology, feasibility of the project, and potential to advance the field. (50%)
- Applicant: Track record and research potential of the applicant, including academic excellence, personal initiative, and critical thinking. (30%)
- Training & Development: Suitability and quality of the research environment, supervision arrangements, and proposed training and career development plans. (20%)
The top-ranked applicants will be shortlisted for funding based on the scores received in the assessment process. Awards are made based on the number of scholarships available and the funding allocated to each research area.
Why Pursue Postgraduate Studies in Ireland?
Ireland is an exceptional destination for postgraduate studies, offering world-class universities, a thriving research ecosystem, and an unparalleled student experience. Here are some top reasons to choose Ireland for your Master’s or PhD:
1. Academic ExcellenceIrish universities are ranked among the best in the world and are renowned for their teaching and research quality. Trinity College Dublin, University College Dublin, and the National University of Ireland Galway consistently rank in the global top 300 universities.
Ireland’s technological institutes also provide excellent postgraduate programs with close links to industry.
With a strong focus on research and innovation, Irish universities attract leading academics and provide cutting-edge facilities for postgraduate students. You’ll have the opportunity to work with top researchers in your field and contribute to groundbreaking discoveries.
2. Innovative Research OpportunitiesIreland is home to a vibrant research and development landscape, with significant investment in science, technology, and innovation.
The country has established itself as a global hub for research in areas like ICT, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, energy, and the environment.
As a postgraduate student in Ireland, you’ll have access to state-of-the-art research facilities, specialized equipment, and funding to support your projects.
Irish universities have strong partnerships with industry, providing opportunities for collaborative research, internships, and networking with potential employers.
3. Supportive EnvironmentIrish higher education institutions provide a welcoming and supportive environment for international students.
With a diverse student population and a range of support services, you’ll quickly feel at home in Ireland.
Universities offer dedicated support for postgraduate students, including research skills training, career development workshops, and mentoring programs.
You’ll also have access to student societies, sports clubs, and cultural events to enrich your experience outside of the lab or library.
4. Post-Study OpportunitiesIreland offers attractive post-study work opportunities for international graduates.
With a 1G visa, Master’s and PhD graduates can remain in Ireland for up to 24 months to seek employment. This provides a valuable opportunity to gain work experience and apply your skills in a real-world setting.
Ireland’s strong economy and growing industries provide excellent career prospects for postgraduate students. Many global companies have their European headquarters in Ireland, including Google, Facebook, Apple, and Pfizer, creating a demand for highly skilled graduates.
5. Quality of LifeStudying in Ireland offers an unbeatable quality of life, combining world-class education with stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and a friendly, welcoming society.
From the bustling streets of Dublin to the rugged coastlines of the Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland has something for everyone.
As a student, you’ll have the opportunity to explore Ireland’s rich history, participate in festivals and events, and immerse yourself in the legendary Irish social scene.
With a low cost of living compared to other study abroad destinations, you can enjoy all that Ireland has to offer without breaking the bank.
FAQs
Have questions about the Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship Programme?
Check out these frequently asked questions:
Q: Can I apply for the scholarship before securing a place at an Irish university?
A: No, you must have applied to an eligible Higher Education Institution (HEI) and identified a potential supervisor before submitting your scholarship application. However, you do not need to have been offered a place at the HEI at the time of application.
If successful in the scholarship competition, funding will be contingent on securing a place at the HEI.
Q: How long does the scholarship last?
A: The Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship offers funding for up to four years for a Doctoral degree and up to two years for a Research Master’s degree.
Q: Can I hold another scholarship simultaneously with the Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship?
A: No, scholarship holders are not permitted to hold a Council scholarship simultaneously with any other scholarship, bursary, or award.
Q: Are there any restrictions on the research area for the scholarship?
A: No, the scholarship is open to all disciplines, from science and engineering to arts and humanities. However, your research proposal should align with one of Ireland’s strategic funding priorities and demonstrate potential for impact.
Q: When will I find out if my application has been successful?
A: The assessment process takes place from November 2024 to March 2025. Applicants will be notified of the outcome by the end of March 2025. If successful, scholarships will commence on 1 September 2025.
For more FAQs and detailed information, consult the official scholarship website.
Conclusion
The Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship Programme provides an unparalleled opportunity for talented students to pursue world-class research and further their academic careers in Ireland.
With generous funding, expert supervision, and access to cutting-edge facilities, the scholarships offer a launchpad for the research leaders of tomorrow.
Ireland’s welcoming culture, renowned universities, and post-study work opportunities make it an ideal destination for postgraduate studies.
Whether you’re passionate about science, business, humanities, or the arts, you’ll find a supportive environment to nurture your talents and make a real impact in your field.
So what are you waiting for?
Start preparing your application today and take the first step towards an extraordinary research journey in Ireland!
