Government of Ireland International Education Scholar (GOI‑IES) 2026
Government of Ireland International Education Scholar (GOI‑IES) 2026
Type: Fully funded international scholarship (Master’s or PhD – NFQ level 9 or 10)
Location: Ireland (host higher education institution)
Number of awards: 60 (one‑year awards)
Role overview
The Government of Ireland International Education Scholarship (GOI‑IES) 2026 offers outstanding international students a fully funded one‑year opportunity to pursue a Master’s, postgraduate diploma or PhD in Ireland. Scholars receive a stipend and a full tuition fee waiver and are recognised as Government of Ireland Scholars while studying at leading Irish higher education institutions.
What the award includes
– Stipend of €10,000 for one academic year.
– Full tuition fee waiver for the scholarship year (provided by the host higher education institution).
– Recognition as a Government of Ireland Scholar and access to the host institution’s academic resources and networks.
Who is eligible
– Applicants must have a domiciliary of origin outside the EU/EEA, Switzerland and the United Kingdom.
– Applicants must be admitted (conditional or final offer) to a qualifying Master’s, postgraduate diploma or PhD programme at an eligible Irish higher education institution at the time of application. Proof of admission must be submitted with the GOI‑IES application.
– Applicants who previously held a GOI‑IES scholarship are not eligible.
– Russian and Belarusian nationals are not eligible.
– Candidates should confirm with the chosen institution that the course is eligible for GOI‑IES support.
Selection and conditions
– The programme awards 60 scholarships annually.
– Candidates are selected on academic merit and other criteria as set out in the GOI‑IES call document.
– Host institutions are required to provide the full fee waiver for the award year.
How to apply
1. Apply for admission to a qualifying programme at an eligible Irish higher education institution following that institution’s admission procedures.
2. Obtain a conditional or final offer of admission and prepare proof of that offer.
3. Complete the GOI‑IES application as instructed in the 2026 call documentation and submit required supporting documents, including proof of admission.
4. For full details, eligible institutions list and application guidance, visit: https://hea.ie/policy/internationalisation/goi-ies/
Deadline
– Application deadline: 12 March 2026. Submit all required documents before the deadline.
Notes and guidance
– Check the eligible HEIs and relevant contact details in Appendix 1 of the 2026 GOI‑IES call document (available on the scholarship webpage).
– If unsure whether your chosen course is eligible, contact the institution’s admissions or international office before applying.
– Prepare a strong application package: clear research or study motivation, excellent academic record, and complete documentation.
This is an excellent opportunity for ambitious international students seeking postgraduate study in Ireland with substantial financial support. Apply before 12 March 2026 and share with potential candidates.
