The Government of Ireland International Education Scholarships 2026 offer one of the most competitive fully funded study opportunities in Europe for high-achieving international students. This flagship program supports outstanding students from outside the EU to pursue Master’s, Postgraduate Diploma, or PhD degrees in Ireland, with full tuition fee waivers and a generous living stipend. Managed by the Higher Education Authority and funded by the Government of Ireland in partnership with Irish universities, this scholarship attracts global talent seeking world-class education, research exposure, and international career pathways.

Government of Ireland Scholarship-Overview

  • Host Country: Ireland
  • Scholarship Provider: Government of Ireland
  • Administered By: Higher Education Authority (HEA)
  • Degree Levels:
    • Master’s (NFQ Level 9)
    • Postgraduate Diploma (NFQ Level 9)
    • PhD (NFQ Level 10)
  • Scholarship Duration: 1 year (full-time study)
  • Total Scholarships: 60 awards
  • Application Mode: Online
  • 2026 Call Opens: 29 January 2026
  • Application Deadline: 12 March 2026 (5:00 PM Irish Time)

Available Fields of Study

The Government of Ireland International Education Scholarship is open to all academic disciplines, depending on the programs offered by eligible Irish higher education institutions.

Common study areas include:

  • Engineering and Technology
  • Computer Science and Data Science
  • Environmental Science and Sustainability
  • Business, Economics, and Management
  • Public Policy and International Relations
  • Health Sciences and Biotechnology
  • Social Sciences and Humanities
  • Arts, Design, and Creative Industries

Applicants are advised to confirm that their chosen program is eligible for the GOI-IES with their host institution.

Click Here for Detailed Ireland Scholarships for International Students

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the Government of Ireland International Education Scholarships 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:

  • Must be domiciled outside the EU/EEA, Switzerland, and the UK
  • Must apply for a Master’s, Postgraduate Diploma, or PhD at an eligible Irish higher education institution
  • Must hold a conditional or final offer letter at the time of scholarship application
  • Must demonstrate strong academic excellence
  • Must submit two academic or professional references
  • Applicants who previously received a GOI-IES award are not eligible
  • Russian and Belarusian nationals are not eligible

Click for Detailed fully funded scholarships in Ireland Eligibility and Requirements

Application Process for Ireland Education Scholarship

Follow these steps carefully to apply successfully:

Step 1: Choose an Irish University and Program: Apply for admission directly to an eligible Irish higher education institution.

Click Here to Check the Eligible Institutions for GOI-IES 2026 Abroad Scholarship (Page 9)

Step 2: Secure an Offer Letter: Obtain a conditional or final offer of admission.

Step 3: Read the Official Call for the international education scholarships in Ireland and review eligibility rules, assessment criteria, and required documents.

Click Here to Visit the Government of Ireland Scholarship for international students 2026

Step 4: Prepare Required Documents

  • Proof of admission
  • Academic transcripts
  • Personal statement
  • Two references

Step 5: Submit Online Application: Apply through the official 2026 GOI-IES online portal once it opens (29 Jan 2026).

Click Here to Apply for Fully Funded Scholarships 2026 in Ireland

Financial Benefits and Coverage

The Government of Ireland International Education Scholarship 2026 is a fully funded scholarship, offering strong financial support:

  • €10,000 stipend for one academic year
  • 100% tuition fee waiver by the host Irish institution
  • Access to Ireland’s public universities and research facilities
  • Opportunity to live and study in Europe with global exposure

This funding helps cover living expenses, accommodation, and daily costs, making it one of the most attractive study-abroad scholarships in Europe.

Apply Now—Study in Ireland for free

The Government of Ireland International Education Scholarships 2026 provide an exceptional opportunity for talented international students to study in Ireland with full financial support. With a generous stipend, tuition fee waiver, and access to globally ranked universities, this program is ideal for students aiming to build international academic and professional careers.

Click Here for Official Call for Government of Ireland International Education Scholarships 2026

Also Check: List of Fully Funded Scholarships Worldwide 2026

Also Check: List of Open Erasmus Mundus Scholarships in Europe 2026

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the Government of Ireland Scholarship fully funded?
Yes. It includes a €10,000 stipend plus a full tuition fee waiver.

Can international students apply for PhD programs?
Yes. PhD applicants at NFQ Level 10 are eligible.

Do I need an offer letter before applying?
Yes. A conditional or final offer is mandatory.

How many scholarships are awarded each year?
Approximately 60 scholarships are awarded annually.

Can I apply to more than one institution?
You may apply to multiple universities, but only one GOI-IES application is allowed.

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Muhammad Usman

Postdoctoral researcher at the Institute of Science (formally Tokyo Tech).

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