Deadline: 12-Mar-2026
The Government of Ireland – International Education Scholarships (GOI-IES), administered by the Higher Education Authority (HEA), support high-achieving international students pursuing NFQ Level 9 or 10 postgraduate study in Ireland. The scholarship offers a €10,000 stipend plus a full tuition and registration fee waiver for one academic year, with awards for the 2026/27 intake.
Government of Ireland International Education Scholarships Overview
The Higher Education Authority (HEA) invites applications for the Government of Ireland – International Education Scholarships (GOI-IES) to attract high-calibre international students to Ireland. The programme supports full-time, in-person postgraduate study at NFQ Levels 9 and 10 across all disciplines, subject to availability of places at approved Irish higher education institutions (HEIs).
Purpose and Strategic Objectives
The GOI-IES programme aims to strengthen Ireland’s global academic engagement by supporting academically excellent students with strong leadership potential. It prioritises candidates who demonstrate clear alignment between their academic goals, professional ambitions, and the value of studying in Ireland.
Scholarship Benefits and Financial Support
Each GOI-IES award includes:
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A €10,000 stipend to contribute toward living and study-related costs
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A full tuition fee waiver for the scholarship year
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A full registration fee waiver for the scholarship year
The scholarship is awarded for one academic year only and cannot be extended. For programmes lasting three semesters, host HEIs may choose to extend the tuition fee waiver, but the stipend amount remains fixed.
Level and Type of Study Supported
The scholarship supports one year of full-time, in-person study at:
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NFQ Level 9: Taught master’s degrees, postgraduate diplomas, research master’s programmes
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NFQ Level 10: PhD programmes
All disciplines are eligible, provided places are available at participating Irish HEIs.
Number of Scholarships and Key Dates
Approximately 60 scholarships are expected to be awarded for the 2026/27 academic year through an annual competitive call approved by the HEA. Successful candidates must begin their studies in September or October 2026 and reside in Ireland for the full duration of the award. An official GOI-IES award ceremony will be held in spring 2027.
Who Is Eligible to Apply
Applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
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Domiciliary of origin outside the EU/EEA, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom
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Hold a conditional or final offer as an international fee-paying student at an approved Irish HEI
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Apply for an eligible full-time, in-person programme for the 2026/27 academic year
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Have not previously received a GOI-IES award
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Are not citizens of Russia or Belarus
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Submit proof of admission with the application
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Submit only one application per candidate
Selection Criteria and Assessment Focus
Applications are assessed on merit and alignment with programme goals. Priority is given to candidates demonstrating:
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Strong academic performance and relevant work or research experience
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Excellent communication skills
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Active engagement in extracurricular activities such as humanitarian work, politics, arts, or sport
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A compelling rationale for choosing Ireland that aligns with long-term academic and professional goals
How the Selection Process Works
The assessment process follows a structured, multi-stage approach:
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Automated eligibility screening
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Initial review by the Higher Education Authority
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Shortlisting by relevant HEIs based on institutional strategic priorities
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Evaluation by an independent assessment panel
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Scoring using a defined marking scheme covering academic profile, personal statement, and references
Only applications scoring at least 60 marks are considered for funding. Final decisions are based solely on submitted documentation.
How to Apply
Applicants must complete the process as follows:
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Secure a conditional or final offer from an approved Irish HEI
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Prepare all required documentation, including proof of admission and references
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Submit the application through the official online system
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Ensure submission is completed by 5:00 pm (Irish time) on 12 March 2026
No amendments or additional materials are accepted after submission. Results are expected to be announced in early June 2026.
Tips for a Strong Application
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Clearly articulate why Ireland is essential to your academic and career goals
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Demonstrate leadership, initiative, and community engagement
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Align your personal statement with the scholarship’s objectives
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Choose referees who can speak directly to your academic and professional strengths
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Ensure all eligibility requirements are met before submission
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Submitting an application without proof of admission
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Applying for ineligible programmes or study modes
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Missing the application deadline
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Providing vague or generic personal statements
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Attempting to submit multiple applications
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the value of the GOI-IES scholarship?
Each scholarship provides a €10,000 stipend plus a full tuition and registration fee waiver for one academic year.
Who administers the GOI-IES programme?
The programme is administered by the Higher Education Authority (HEA) in Ireland.
Can the scholarship be extended beyond one year?
No. The stipend is limited to one academic year, though some HEIs may extend the tuition fee waiver for longer programmes.
Are all academic disciplines eligible?
Yes. All disciplines are eligible, subject to the availability of places at approved HEIs.
When will successful applicants start their studies?
Scholars are expected to commence studies in September or October 2026.
Is online or part-time study allowed?
No. Only full-time, in-person programmes are eligible.
Conclusion
The Government of Ireland – International Education Scholarships offer a prestigious opportunity for outstanding international students to pursue advanced postgraduate study in Ireland. By combining financial support with academic excellence and global engagement, the programme strengthens Ireland’s higher education sector while supporting future international leaders.
For more information, visit HEA.
