Government of Ireland Scholarships 2026 – Apply Now

The Government of Ireland International Education Scholarship (GOI-IES) 2026 programme is now open for applications. This initiative aims to attract high-calibre international students to pursue postgraduate studies in Ireland. Managed by the Higher Education Authority (HEA) in partnership with Irish higher education institutions (HEIs), the programme offers scholarships for one year of full-time study at NFQ level 9 (master’s or postgraduate diploma) or level 10 (PhD).

Every year, 60 scholarships are awarded to outstanding students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and a commitment to contributing globally in their chosen fields.

Overview of the Government of Ireland International Education Scholarship

The GOI-IES programme provides financial and academic support for international students seeking postgraduate study in Ireland. Each scholarship includes a stipend of €10,000 for one year of full-time study. Additionally, the host HEI is required to provide a full tuition fee waiver for the duration of the scholarship.

These scholarships are part of Ireland’s broader international education strategy, which seeks to develop global talent, strengthen academic collaboration, and showcase Ireland as a destination for high-quality education.

Eligibility Criteria

Citizenship and Domicile

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be domiciled outside the EU/EEA, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.
• Hold a conditional or final offer of admission to an eligible Irish HEI at the time of applying.
• Have not previously held a GOI-IES scholarship.
• Russian and Belarusian nationals are not eligible.

Academic Requirements

Candidates must be applying to:

• A master’s degree, postgraduate diploma, or PhD programme at an eligible Irish higher education institution.
• Have academic records that demonstrate outstanding achievement in their chosen field.

Applicants are advised to confirm directly with their HEI whether their course is eligible for the scholarship. A list of eligible HEIs, along with their contact information, is available in Appendix 1 of the 2026 GOI-IES call document.

Benefits of the GOI-IES Scholarship

The GOI-IES scholarship provides significant support to international students, including financial, academic, and professional benefits:

Financial Support

• €10,000 stipend for living expenses during one year of full-time study.

• Full tuition fee waiver at the host HEI.

Academic and Professional Benefits

• Opportunity to study at a leading Irish HEI.

• Access to cutting-edge facilities, faculty mentorship, and research opportunities.
• Networking opportunities with fellow scholars and professionals.
• Exposure to Ireland’s vibrant academic and cultural environment.

These benefits make GOI-IES one of the most competitive international scholarships available in Ireland.

How to Apply

Applications for the 2026 GOI-IES scholarship are submitted online through the official application portal. Each candidate may submit a maximum of one application.

Step-by-Step Application Process

• Review Eligibility: Confirm that you meet the criteria for citizenship, domicile, and admission to an eligible HEI.

• Admission to an HEI: Obtain a conditional or final offer from a participating HEI. This proof of admission must be included in your application.

• Prepare Required Documents:

  • Academic transcripts

  • Curriculum Vitae

  • Two academic references

  • Personal statement outlining the rationale for studying in Ireland

• Complete Online Application: Submit all information via the 2026 GOI-IES online portal.

• Submit Before Deadline: The application deadline is 5pm (Irish time) on 12 March 2026. Late applications are not accepted.

It is recommended to submit early to avoid technical issues due to high traffic on the portal. Once submitted, applications cannot be altered.

Assessment Process

Applications are evaluated based on a combination of academic, personal, and professional criteria:

Key Assessment Areas

• Academic Excellence: Evidence of strong academic performance and achievement.

• Communication Skills: Ability to convey ideas clearly, both in writing and verbally.
• Extracurricular Engagement: Participation in humanitarian work, politics, arts, sports, or other leadership activities.
• Alignment with Ireland: A clear rationale for choosing Ireland and the proposed programme, and how the scholarship aligns with the applicant’s long-term goals.

Evaluation Procedure

• Submitted applications are shared with the relevant HEIs, which first check eligibility and shortlist candidates according to institutional priorities.
• Shortlisted applications are then assessed by an independent panel of experts.
• The assessment process ensures fairness, transparency, and alignment with the scholarship’s objectives.

Full details of the assessment process are included in the 2026 GOI-IES call document.

Key Dates for 2026

Applicants should plan ahead, particularly international candidates who may require visa or travel arrangements.

Eligible Study Levels

The scholarship is designed for students pursuing:

• NFQ Level 9: Master’s degree or postgraduate diploma
• NFQ Level 10: PhD research programmes

This ensures that GOI-IES supports advanced study and research, fostering Ireland’s global academic reputation.

How to Maximize Your Application

To strengthen your application:

• Highlight Academic Excellence: Include grades, awards, and achievements that demonstrate outstanding performance.
• Provide Strong References: Select referees who can attest to your academic ability and potential.
• Showcase Extracurricular Involvement: Emphasize leadership roles, volunteer work, or participation in student societies.
• Explain Your Motivation Clearly: Articulate why Ireland is the ideal place to pursue your studies and how the scholarship will support your career objectives.
• Tailor Personal Statement: Make it specific, concise, and persuasive, demonstrating your long-term impact as a scholar.

Benefits of Studying in Ireland

Ireland is a hub for international students, offering world-class education, a multicultural environment, and vibrant research opportunities.

Academic Advantages

• Home to top-ranked universities and research institutions.

• Opportunities for research collaboration in science, technology, business, and the humanities.
• English-language education with global recognition.

Cultural and Lifestyle Benefits

• Safe and welcoming cities for international students.
• Rich cultural heritage, music, arts, and festivals.
• Access to stunning landscapes, coastlines, and historic landmarks.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of Irish HEIs benefit from:

• Strong employability prospects in Ireland and abroad.
• Alumni networks and professional connections for research or industry.
• Opportunities to contribute to international projects and innovation.

Contact Information

For more details on the 2026 GOI-IES call:

• Email:goi-ies@hea.ie
• Official 2026 Call Document: Downloadable from the GOI-IES webpage
• Sample Application Form: Available for reference

For queries specific to individual higher education institutions, contact the respective HEI using details provided in Appendix 1 of the 2026 GOI-IES call document.

The Government of Ireland International Education Scholarship 2026 offers an unparalleled opportunity for international students to pursue postgraduate education in Ireland. With €10,000 stipend, full tuition waiver, and access to leading HEIs, the scholarship is designed to attract the world’s best talent.

Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and a clear motivation for studying in Ireland. The application process requires careful preparation, including securing an offer from a participating HEI and submitting references.

For prospective students seeking a globally recognized education, enhanced research opportunities, and cultural immersion in Ireland, the GOI-IES scholarship represents a gateway to academic and professional success. 

Applications close at 5pm Irish time on 12 March 2026, and successful candidates will be notified in early June 2026.

Start preparing your application today to take full advantage of this prestigious scholarship opportunity.

Related Links:

• Higher Education Authority – GOI-IES Official Page
• Eligible Irish HEIs – Appendix 1

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