Government of Ireland International Education Scholarships 2026: Fully Funded Master’s and PhD Opportunities for Outstanding International Students

The Government of Ireland International Education Scholarship (GOI-IES) is a prestigious national scholarship programme that supports high-achieving international students to pursue postgraduate study in Ireland. Managed by the Higher Education Authority (HEA) and funded by the Government of Ireland in partnership with Irish higher education institutions, the programme promotes Ireland as a global hub for academic excellence and international talent.

The 2026 call opens on 29 January 2026, with 60 scholarships awarded annually for one year of full-time study at NFQ Levels 9 and 10 (Master’s, Postgraduate Diploma, or PhD).

What the Scholarship Covers

Each Government of Ireland International Education Scholarship includes:

• A €10,000 stipend for one academic year

• A full tuition fee waiver from the host Irish higher education institution

• The opportunity to study at a recognised Irish university or institute of technology

Who Is Eligible

Applicants must:

• Be non-EU/EEA, non-Swiss, and non-UK nationals

• Hold a conditional or final offer of admission to an eligible Irish higher education institution

• Apply to study at Master’s, Postgraduate Diploma, or PhD level

• Have a strong academic background and demonstrate leadership potential

The following are not eligible:

• Previous recipients of the GOI-IES

• Russian and Belarusian nationals

Application Process

Candidates must:

1. Apply for admission to an eligible Irish higher education institution

2. Secure a conditional or final offer of admission

3. Submit an online GOI-IES application via the official portal (available when the call opens)

4. Upload two academic or professional references

Only one application per candidate is permitted in the 2026 cycle.

Assessment Criteria

Applications are assessed based on:

• Academic excellence

• Communication and leadership skills

• Engagement in extracurricular or community activities

• A clear rationale for studying in Ireland and long-term career goals

Shortlisted applications are reviewed by the host institutions and then assessed by an independent panel.

Key Dates

• Call opens: 29 January 2026

• Application deadline: 12 March 2026 (5:00 PM Irish time)

• Results announced: Early June 2026

Why Study in Ireland

The GOI-IES aligns with Ireland’s national strategies on global education, innovation, and skills development. Scholars gain access to world-class education, vibrant research communities, and strong global networks that support long-term academic and professional success.

👉 Official information & application portal: https://www.gov.ie

Find more information about this scholarship, click here.

Feel free to also email goi-ies@hea.ie to ask any further questions about the scholarship.

Discover more scholarship opportunities here.