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The Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship 2026 is one of the most prestigious fully funded scholarships in Europe, administered by Research Ireland. It supports domestic and international students pursuing a Master’s by Research or a PhD at leading Irish universities and research institutions. This highly competitive program is designed to attract outstanding international researchers and foster innovation, creativity, and global collaboration in Ireland’s higher education sector.
The scholarship is open to applicants from all academic disciplines, making it one of the most inclusive and wide-reaching postgraduate funding opportunities in Europe. With generous financial support and access to Ireland’s vibrant research ecosystem, it provides a unique platform for scholars to advance their academic careers.
Scholarship Details
- Host Country & Platform: Ireland, through Research Ireland
- Degree Levels: Master’s by Research (2 years), PhD (up to 4 years)
- Application Deadlines (2026 Call):
- Call Opens: 11 September 2025
- Applicant Deadline: 23 October 2025 (16:00 Irish time)
- Supervisor Deadline: 6 November 2025
- Research Office Endorsement: 13 November 2025
- Results Announced: End of April 2026
- Program Start Date: 1 September 2026
Scholarship Benefits
- Annual stipend: €25,000 for living expenses
- Tuition fees: Up to €5,750 per year (with an additional €4,000 for non-EU students if required)
- Research expenses: €3,250 annually for consumables, travel, and project costs
- Duration: Up to 2 years for Master’s by Research, 4 years for PhD
- Total value: Over €33,000 per year in comprehensive support
Eligibility Criteria
- Open to Irish and international students
- Must hold a first-class or upper-second-class honours Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent). If the primary degree is lower, a Master’s qualification is required
- Must be a new entrant or within the first year of registration by September 2025
- Applicants may not have had more than two prior unsuccessful applications
- Must have a primary supervisor at an eligible Irish higher education institution
- Applications can be submitted in English or Irish
How to Apply
- Confirm eligibility and secure a supervisor at an eligible Irish institution
- Draft a research proposal highlighting novelty, feasibility, and impact
- Prepare supporting documents: transcripts, referee details, ethics approval (if applicable)
- Submit the application online before the deadline
- Ensure supervisor and research office endorsements are completed on time
For more information Check the official source
FAQs
Is the Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship fully funded?
Yes, it covers tuition, living expenses, and research costs.
Can Pakistani students apply?
Yes, the scholarship is open to all nationalities, including Pakistan.
What is the success rate?
On average, about 18% of applicants are successful, making it highly competitive.
Do I need a supervisor before applying?
Yes, you must secure a supervisor at an eligible Irish institution before submitting your application.
What disciplines are covered?
All academic disciplines are eligible, from STEM to humanities and social sciences.
Do I need IELTS/TOEFL?
Yes, proof of English proficiency is required unless your previous degree was taught entirely in English.
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