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Government of Ireland International Education Scholarship (GOI-IES) officially named Ireland Government Scholarship 2026, is a highly regarded fully funded scholarship of international students, who want to have an opportunity to get higher education in Ireland. This scholarship is funded by the Irish Government and managed by the Higher Education Authority (HEA), that enables the bright students in the non-EU/EEA countries to pursue their studies in the best Irish universities.
The program advocates Master, and PhD degree programs in diverse academic fields. It has one of the most competitive and attractive scholarships in Europe where the selected candidates are given a handsome stipend and a waiver of full tuition fee. The education in Ireland is also an opportunity to get the education of the highest quality, the possibility of the career experience on the international level and a great multicultural atmosphere.
Key Highlights
| Feature | Details |
| Host Country | Ireland |
| University | Irish Higher Education Institutions |
| Degree Level | Master’s, PhD |
| Coverage | Fully Funded |
| Eligibility | Non-EU/EEA International Students |
| Deadline | Expected March 2026 |
Detailed Description
Ireland Government Scholarship 2026 is a program designed to bring high quality international students to the institutions in Ireland and market Ireland as a world education destination. There are few scholarships given to academically outstanding students who have good leadership capabilities every year.
The scholarship is worth one academic years and in some cases the program can be extended based on the performance of the scholar and the policies of the institution. Students are able to take courses in science, engineering, business, humanities, social sciences, health, and technology.
Ireland has universities that rank well globally, state of the art research institutions and industry contacts especially those in the IT, pharmaceutical, finance and research sectors.
Benefits
Recipients of the Government of Ireland Scholarship 2026 enjoy a comprehensive financial package:
- Full Tuition Waiver: The host university covers 100% of your tuition and registration fees.
- Annual Stipend: A living allowance of €10,000 (for GOI-IES) or up to €25,000 (for Research Ireland Postgraduate Program) per year.
- Research Expenses: For research-based students, an additional €3,250 per annum is often provided for project-related costs.
- Global Recognition: Being a “Government of Ireland Scholar” is a significant prestige that enhances your CV and career prospects.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants are required to have the following in order to be considered into the 2026 intake:
- Nationality: Should be a domiciliary of a country that is not a member of the EU/EEA, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.
- Admission Offer: You should have a conditional or unconditional offer with a qualified university in Ireland during the period of application.
- Academic Record: A first-class/ upper second-class (2:1) bachelor degree (or equivalent) is most likely to be needed.
- Language Proficiency: The host institution requires proficiency in English (IELTS/TOEFL).
- Exclusions: Individuals who have previously held a GOI-IES scholarship are ineligible.
Required Documents
Ensure you have the following documents ready in PDF format:
- Official Academic Transcripts: Detailed records of all previous degrees.
- Offer Letter: Proof of admission from an eligible Irish Higher Education Institution.
- Two Reference Letters: From academic or professional referees who can vouch for your potential.
- Personal Statement: A compelling essay explaining your rationale for choosing Ireland and your career goals.
- Passport: A valid copy of your international passport.
- Research Proposal: (For Research Master’s and PhD applicants only).
Application Process
The application process is entirely online. Follow these steps carefully:
- Secure University Admission: Firstly, apply in a university in Ireland. Without an offer letter, you will not be able to apply to get the scholarship.
- Online Portal Registration: Register an account on the official HEA application portal.
- Preliminary Quiz: Fill in a brief eligibility quiz so as to access the entire application form.
- Fill the Form: Fill all the fields including your school record and personal statement.
- Upload Documents: Be sure to upload all the necessary documents and be sure your referees post their letters through the system.
- Final Submission: Check your application and send it in time before the deadline of 5:00 PM (Irish time).
Deadline
Expected Deadline: March 2026
How to Apply
To apply, visit the official website below:
FAQs
1. Is the Ireland Government Scholarship 2026 fully funded?
Yes it pays full tuition and includes a €10,000 living stipend.
2. Can Pakistani students apply for this scholarship?
Yes, students from Pakistan and other non-EU/EEA countries are eligible.
3. Do I need IELTS for this scholarship?
Yes, most Irish universities require proof of English language proficiency.
4. Can I apply without a university offer?
An offer or eligibility to admission is highly suggested.
5. How many scholarships are awarded each year?
There are very few scholarships that are given in terms of merit and competitiveness.
6. Can the scholarship be extended?
This is usually a one year scholarship, with very minimal chances of being extended.
