The Hardiman PhD Scholarships 2026 offer one of the most competitive and high-value fully funded PhD scholarships in Ireland for outstanding international and domestic students. Funded by the Irish Government and the European Union, this flagship program supports high-impact, curiosity-driven research across all disciplines at University of Galway. If you are searching for a fully funded PhD in Europe, with a high annual stipend, full tuition coverage, and access to world-class research facilities, the Hardiman PhD Scholarship is a top-tier opportunity for 2026.

Hardiman PhD Scholarships in Ireland 2026—Overview

Host Country: Ireland
Host University: University of Galway
Degree Level: PhD (Structured Doctoral Programmes)
Funding Type: Fully Funded PhD Scholarship
Duration: 4 Years
Start Date: 1 September 2026
Annual Stipend: €25,000 per year
Tuition Fees: 100% covered
Eligible Applicants: International & EU students
Application Deadline: 6 February 2026 (17:00 Irish Time)

This scholarship is designed for ambitious researchers who want to work on globally relevant challenges while building a strong academic and professional research career in Europe.

Available Fields and Research Areas

The Hardiman PhD Scholarships are discipline-inclusive, meaning you can apply across a wide range of academic and research fields, including but not limited to:

Engineering and Technology
Computer Science, AI, Data Science, Cybersecurity
Natural and Environmental Sciences
Medicine, Health Sciences, Biomedical Research
Social Sciences and Public Policy
Arts, Humanities, and Creative Practice
Business, Economics, and Law
Sustainability, Climate, and Marine Research

Applicants must secure a confirmed supervisor at the University of Galway in their chosen research area before applying.

Click Here for Detailed University of Galway Colleges and Schools to Study in Ireland for Free

Eligibility Criteria for Hardiman PhD Scholarships 2026

To be eligible, applicants must meet the following requirements:

Hold a First Class or Upper Second Class Honours degree (or international equivalent)
Must not already hold a PhD or be currently registered in a PhD programme
Meet the academic entry requirements for doctoral study at the University of Galway
Meet English language requirements, if English is not your first language
Demonstrate strong academic potential, research motivation, and originality

English Language Requirement (Minimum)

IELTS: Overall 6.5, with no band below 6.0
Equivalent TOEFL, PTE Academic, or other recognised English tests are also accepted

Country-specific English waivers may apply for applicants educated in majority English-speaking systems.

Click Here for Detailed PhD Eligibility to Study in Europe with Ireland Hardiman Scholarship

Application Process – Step by Step

Follow these steps carefully to apply successfully for Ireland Phd scholarships for international students:

Step 1: Download the Hardiman PhD study abroad scholarship application guidelines and read the descriptions carefully.

Click Here to Download the Applicant’s Guide for Hardiman International Phd Scholarships in Europe

Step 3: Find a PhD Supervisor: You must identify and secure one confirmed supervisor at the University of Galway. A Supervisor Nomination Form must be submitted by the supervisor.

Click Here to Find the Supervisor for PhD Scholarship Abroad in Ireland at University of Galway

Step 3: Submit Online Application: Complete and submit the Hardiman PhD Scholarship application form in English or Irish only.

Click Here to Apply Online for Hardiman PhD Scholarship to Study in Europe with a Scholarship

Step 3: Academic References: Two academic referees are required and References must be submitted directly by referees before the deadline

Click Here to Download the Ireland PhD Scholarship Reference Form

Also Check: Click Here to Apply for Fully Funded PhD Scholarships 2026

Scholarship Benefits and Funding Coverage

The Hardiman PhD Scholarship is among the highest-value PhD funding packages in Ireland, making it especially attractive for students from high-CPC regions such as the US, UK, EU, Canada, Australia, and Asia.

What the Scholarship Covers

€25,000 annual stipend (tax-free, subject to conditions)
Full tuition fee waiver for 4 years
Access to advanced research infrastructure
Structured PhD training and career development
International research collaboration opportunities
Supportive research environment in a top EU university

This makes it a true fully funded PhD scholarship in Europe, with no tuition or living cost burden on students.

Apply Now—Fully Funded PhD in Ireland

The Hardiman PhD Scholarships 2026 offer a rare opportunity to pursue a fully funded PhD in Ireland with excellent financial support, world-class supervision, and strong global research exposure.

If you are aiming for a high-impact research career, competitive funding, and international academic recognition, this scholarship should be at the top of your list.

Click Here to Explore and Apply for Official Hardiman PhD Scholarships 2026 Call

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 Hardiman PhD Scholarship fully funded?

Yes. It covers full tuition fees and provides a €25,000 annual stipend for four years.

Can international students apply?

Yes. The scholarship is open to both EU and non-EU international students.

Do I need a supervisor before applying?

Yes. A confirmed supervisor at the University of Galway is mandatory.

What is the application deadline for 2026?

The final deadline is 6 February 2026 at 17:00 Irish Time.

When does the PhD program start?

All successful candidates begin their PhD on 1 September 2026.

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