Deadline: October 23, 2025
Location: Ireland
Degree Levels: Master’s by Research | PhD
Funding Type: Fully Funded
Eligible Nationalities: International and Domestic Students
The Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship 2026 is one of the most prestigious and competitive funding programs for exceptional scholars worldwide. Administered by the Irish Research Council (IRC) and funded by the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation, and Science, the scholarship provides full financial support to students undertaking Master’s by Research or Doctoral (PhD) studies in Ireland.
This flagship program promotes independent, original research across all academic disciplines—ranging from Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) to Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences (AHSS)—within Ireland’s world-renowned higher education institutions.
Host Country: Ireland
Study Destination: Europe
Degree Levels: Master’s by Research (2 years) | Doctoral (PhD) (4 years)
Eligible Countries: Open to all nationalities
Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
Funding Coverage: Up to €34,000 annually
Application Deadline: October 23, 2025
The scholarship supports research in all disciplines, including but not limited to:
Science and Technology
Engineering and Mathematics
Arts and Humanities
Social and Behavioral Sciences
Selected scholars under the Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship 2026 will receive a comprehensive funding package valued at up to €34,000 per year, including:
💰 Annual Stipend: €25,000 for living expenses
🎓 Tuition Fees Contribution: Up to €5,750 (including non-EU fees)
🧪 Research Expenses Allowance: €3,250 per annum
This funding ensures that recipients can focus entirely on their research without financial stress.
To qualify for the Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship 2026, applicants must meet the following conditions:
Hold a first-class or upper second-class honours Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent).
Be affiliated with an eligible research body or higher education institution in Ireland.
Be a new entrant to the postgraduate program or have completed no more than one year of study.
Have a qualified academic supervisor from a recognized Irish institution.
Submit a complete application in English or Irish before the deadline.
✅ Open to students from all nationalities (EU and non-EU).
✅ Covers Master’s by Research and PhD programs.
✅ Offers full financial support and recognition of academic excellence.
✅ Promotes independent, innovative, and interdisciplinary research.
✅ Features a transparent, peer-reviewed selection process involving international experts.
Step 1: Visit the official Irish Research Council Portal and complete the eligibility quiz to confirm your eligibility.
Step 2: Prepare all necessary documents and submit your application online before the stated deadline.
Step 3: Ensure your supervisor and research office endorsements are submitted on time through the portal.
Step 4: Only complete and original applications that meet formatting and word count requirements will be reviewed.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Opens | September 11, 2025 |
| Application Deadline (Applicants) | October 23, 2025 |
| Supervisor Deadline | November 6, 2025 |
| Research Office Endorsement | November 13, 2025 |
| Results Announcement | April 2026 |
| Scholarship Commencement | September 1, 2026 |
The Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship 2026 is a gateway to academic excellence and professional growth. By joining Ireland’s vibrant research community, successful applicants gain access to top-tier mentors, advanced facilities, and a global research network that fosters creativity and innovation.
With full financial support and international recognition, this scholarship empowers the next generation of researchers to make meaningful contributions in their fields and beyond.
👉 Apply now and take the next step toward achieving your research ambitions in one of Europe’s most research-driven countries.
1. Who funds the scholarship?
It is funded by the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation, and Science and administered by the Irish Research Council (IRC).
2. Is it fully funded?
Yes. It covers tuition fees, research costs, and a €25,000 annual living stipend.
3. Who can apply?
Both domestic and international students from any country are eligible.
4. What degree levels are supported?
Master’s by Research (2 years) and PhD (4 years).
5. Are all disciplines eligible?
Yes, applications are welcome from all academic fields, including STEM, Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences.
6. Do I need a supervisor before applying?
Yes, you must have a primary supervisor from an eligible Irish institution.
7. What is the annual stipend amount?
Each scholar receives €25,000 per year.
8. When will results be announced?
Results will be released in April 2026.
9. When does the scholarship start?
The program officially begins on September 1, 2026.