The Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship Programme is a prestigious national initiative funded by the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science and managed by the Irish Research Council (IRC). The program aims to attract outstanding international students to pursue Master’s or PhD studies in eligible disciplines at participating higher education institutions in Ireland.
Eligibility
To be eligible for the Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship Programme, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Nationality: Be a citizen of any country outside of Ireland.
- Academic Record: Possess a first-class or upper second-class honours bachelor’s degree, or the equivalent, from a recognized university.
- Field of Study: Alignment with one of the eligible disciplines across a wide range of fields, including science, engineering, technology, humanities, social sciences, business, and law.
- English Language Proficiency: Demonstrate fluency in English, both written and spoken, to a minimum of IELTS 6.5 or equivalent.
- Research Proposal (for PhD applicants): For applicants pursuing PhD studies, a detailed research proposal outlining the proposed research project, including objectives, methodology, and timeline is required.
- Leadership Potential: Exhibit leadership skills, initiative, and a commitment to making a positive impact in their field of study.
- Motivation and Contribution: Articulate a clear motivation for pursuing a Master’s or PhD degree in Ireland and demonstrate a willingness to contribute to the advancement of knowledge in their chosen field.
Benefits
The Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship Programme provides a comprehensive package of benefits to successful applicants:
- Full Tuition Fee Waiver: Full tuition fee coverage for the duration of the Master’s or PhD program at the chosen university in Ireland.
- Monthly Stipend: A generous monthly stipend of €19,000 (approximately US$21,300) to cover living expenses such as accommodation, meals, and transportation.
- Research Allowance (for PhD applicants): For PhD applicants, an additional research allowance of €3,250 (approximately US$3,600) per annum to support research activities.
- Contribution to Fees: A contribution of up to €5,750 (approximately US$6,425) per annum towards non-EU fees, if applicable.
- Travel Allowance: A travel allowance of up to €2,000 (approximately US$2,250) to cover the cost of travel to and from Ireland for the commencement and completion of the program.
- Networking Opportunities: Access to a network of fellow scholars, researchers, and industry professionals in Ireland and beyond.
- Mentorship Programs: Mentoring from experienced faculty members and research supervisors.
- Research Support: Opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research in world-class facilities and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the chosen field.
Application Process
The application process for the Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship Programme is highly competitive and requires the submission of the following documents:
- Completed Online Application Form: A complete online application form with all required information.
- Academic Transcripts: Official academic transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
- Bachelor’s Degree Certificate: A copy of the bachelor’s degree certificate.
- Research Proposal (for PhD applicants): For PhD applicants, a detailed research proposal outlining the proposed research project, including objectives, methodology, and timeline.
- Letter of Motivation: A compelling letter of motivation highlighting academic goals, research aspirations, and contributions to the advancement of knowledge in the chosen field.
- Two Letters of Recommendation: Two letters of recommendation from academic supervisors or research supervisors.
- Copy of Identity Document or Passport: A copy of a valid identity document or passport.
- Resume: A detailed resume highlighting relevant academic achievements, research experience, and publications.
Application Deadline
The application deadline for the Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship Programme typically falls between October and November of the year prior to the intended start date of study. For the 2024/2025 academic year, the application deadline is October 12, 2023.
Selection Process
Applications for the Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship Programme are reviewed by a selection committee composed of experts from various disciplines. The committee considers the following factors:
- Academic Record: Strength of academic performance, including GPA, coursework, and research experience.
- Research Proposal (for PhD applicants): Clarity, originality, and feasibility of the proposed research project.
- Alignment with Research Priorities: Alignment of the research proposal with Ireland’s research priorities and potential contributions to advancing knowledge.
- Leadership Potential: Evidence of leadership skills, initiative, and a commitment to making a positive impact in the field of study.
- Personal Statement: Clarity and persuasiveness of the letter of motivation, highlighting personal goals, research aspirations
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