Fully Funded Scholarship in Ireland
Isaac Mintah 
The Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship Programme is a well-established national initiative, offering exceptional opportunities for postgraduate researchers across a wide range of disciplines.
Funded by the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, and managed by the Irish Research Council, this programme is a unique component of Ireland’s research landscape. With the recent establishment of Taighde Éireann/Research Ireland, a new national research agency, the scope and impact of this programme are expected to grow even further.
Why Apply for the Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship Programme?
The programme stands out for its:
- Prestigious Individual Awards: Recognizing excellent research in the name of the applicant, these awards are highly regarded in the academic community.
- Objective Selection Process: Applications are reviewed through an international, independent expert peer review process, ensuring fairness and quality.
- Funding Across All Disciplines: From archaeology to zoology, the programme supports research in any field, making it inclusive and diverse.
- Support for Innovative and Interdisciplinary Research: The programme encourages proposals that address new and emerging fields of research, as well as those that integrate multiple disciplines.
What’s on Offer?
Successful applicants can receive up to €31,000 per annum, which includes:
- A Stipend: €22,000 per annum to support living expenses.
- Contribution to Fees: Up to €5,750 per annum, covering both EU and non-EU fees.
- Direct Research Expenses: €3,250 per annum for eligible research-related costs.
Strategic Funding Partners
The programme collaborates with several government departments and agencies to achieve national research objectives. For 2025, strategic funding partners include:
- Environmental Protection Agency
- Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth
- Department of Foreign Affairs
- Met Éireann
How to Apply
Before applying, potential candidates should carefully review the call documentation to ensure eligibility. Applications must be submitted through the online system, with indicative versions of the applicant and supervisor forms provided for reference.
Key Dates to Remember:
- Call Open: 29 August 2024
- FAQ Deadline: 16:00 (Irish time), 03 October 2024
- Applicant Deadline: 16:00 (Irish time), 10 October 2024
- Supervisor/Mentor Deadline: 16:00 (Irish time), 17 October 2024
- Research Office Endorsement Deadline: 16:00 (Irish time), 24 October 2024
- Call Outcome: End of April 2025
- Award Start Date: 1 September 2025
Conclusion
The Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship Programme offers an unparalleled opportunity for emerging researchers to pursue their academic passions with robust financial and institutional support. With its emphasis on innovation, interdisciplinarity, and excellence, this scholarship programme is a gateway to becoming a future leader in the global research community.
