Government of Ireland International Education Scholarships 2026 Set to Open for Global Master’s Applicants
Ireland is once again preparing to attract some of the world’s most talented students through the Government of Ireland – International Education Scholarships 2026, a highly competitive, government-funded opportunity aimed at outstanding international Master’s applicants for the 2026–2027 academic year. With the official call expected in January 2026, this scholarship is positioned as one of Ireland’s most prestigious study pathways for non-EU students seeking world-class education with strong financial support.
Managed by the Higher Education Authority (HEA) in partnership with Irish higher education institutions, the programme is designed to strengthen Ireland’s global academic connections while supporting high-achieving students who show academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to global engagement.
A flagship Irish government scholarship
The Government of Ireland International Education Scholarship (GOI-IES) offers selected students the chance to pursue one full year of in-person Master’s study (NFQ Level 9) at an eligible Irish university. For the 2026/27 academic year, it is expected that around 60 scholarships will be awarded following a national, merit-based selection process.
Unlike university-specific awards, GOI-IES is a national scholarship, meaning applicants compete at country level and are assessed by the HEA after being nominated through the open call.
What successful applicants will receive?
Students selected under the GOI-IES 2026 programme will benefit from a generous funding package that significantly reduces the cost of studying in Ireland. The scholarship includes a €10,000 stipend to support living expenses for one academic year, along with a full tuition fee waiver at the host Irish higher education institution.
While tuition fees are fully covered, applicants should note that bench fees, where applicable for certain programmes, are not included and remain the responsibility of the student.
Wide range of Master’s programmes available
For the 2026 intake, scholarships will be awarded across a broad spectrum of Master’s programmes, including fields such as law, business, public health, sustainability, environmental sciences, marine studies, food science, sociology, migration studies, women’s studies, and energy-related disciplines. Awards are subject to programme availability and institutional capacity.
The scholarship at University College Cork, for example, is strictly for one year of full-time, in-person Master’s study, reinforcing the programme’s emphasis on academic immersion and campus engagement.
Who should apply?
The scholarship is aimed at high-calibre international students who already hold a conditional or final offer of admission from an eligible Irish higher education institution. Applicants are expected to demonstrate strong academic performance, motivation, and the potential to act as global ambassadors for Irish education during and after their studies.
Only students who meet the eligibility requirements and submit complete applications within the official call period will be considered.
Expected application timeline
The HEA call for the Government of Ireland International Education Scholarships 2026 is expected to open in January 2026.
The closing date for GOI-IES 2026 applications is expected in March 2026, in line with previous national timelines for the programme. Applicants are strongly encouraged to secure their Master’s offer early to avoid missing eligibility requirements once the scholarship portal opens.