Ireland is renowned for its world-class education system, vibrant culture, and picturesque landscapes. As an increasingly popular destination for international students, Ireland offers a range of fully funded scholarships designed to attract global talent. These scholarships make studying in Ireland accessible and affordable, covering tuition fees, living expenses, and other related costs.
If you’re looking for opportunities to study in Ireland in 2025, this blog will guide you through the top fully funded scholarships, their eligibility criteria, benefits, and tips for applying successfully.
Fully Funded Scholarships for International Students in Ireland 2025
1. Government of Ireland – International Education Scholarships (GOI-IES)
Overview:
The GOI-IES provides 60 scholarships annually to international students pursuing a one-year taught master’s or final year of an undergraduate program in Ireland.
Benefits:
- Full tuition fee waiver
- €10,000 stipend for living expenses
- Additional allowances for travel and other costs
Eligibility:
- Open to non-EU/EEA students
- Strong academic performance and extracurricular achievements
- Evidence of leadership qualities
How to Apply:
Applications open in early 2025. Check the Government of Ireland website for updates.
2. Erasmus+ Scholarships
Overview:
Erasmus+ is a European Union program that funds study opportunities for international students. Ireland participates actively in Erasmus+, making it a viable option for master’s and doctoral students.
Benefits:
- Tuition fee coverage
- Monthly living allowance (varies by country)
- Travel and insurance grants
Eligibility:
- Open to students from Erasmus+ partner countries
- Must be accepted into an Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degree program in Ireland
How to Apply:
Visit the Erasmus+ website for details and partner programs in Ireland.
3. Trinity College Dublin Global Excellence Scholarships
Overview:
Trinity College Dublin offers merit-based scholarships for outstanding international students at undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
Benefits:
- Full tuition fee waiver
- Additional living expense support in some cases
Eligibility:
- Academic excellence
- Strong motivation and leadership potential
How to Apply:
Submit an application to Trinity College Dublin and indicate your interest in the scholarship. More details can be found on their official website.
4. University College Dublin (UCD) Global Scholarships
Overview:
UCD provides a variety of scholarships for international students, including fully funded options for high-achieving candidates.
Benefits:
- Full tuition fees covered
- Monthly stipend for living costs
Eligibility:
- Exceptional academic records
- Demonstrated extracurricular engagement
How to Apply:
Scholarship applications are part of the UCD admissions process. Visit their website for deadlines and requirements.
5. Irish Research Council (IRC) Postgraduate Scholarships
Overview:
The IRC funds outstanding research students pursuing master’s or PhD programs in Ireland.
Benefits:
- Full tuition fee coverage
- Annual stipend of €18,500
- Additional allowances for research costs
Eligibility:
- Open to all international students
- Strong research proposal and academic credentials
How to Apply:
Applications typically open in early 2025. Visit the IRC website for details.
6. National University of Ireland Galway (NUIG) International Scholarships
Overview:
NUIG offers fully funded scholarships to international students enrolling in various programs.
Benefits:
- Full tuition fee waiver
- Monthly living allowance
Eligibility:
- High academic achievement
- Strong leadership and community engagement
How to Apply:
Applications are made directly through the NUIG admissions portal. Check their official website for updates.
7. Cork University Business School Scholarships
Overview:
For business enthusiasts, the Cork University Business School provides fully funded scholarships for master’s students.
Benefits:
- Full tuition coverage
- Living allowance for the program duration
Eligibility:
- Academic excellence in business-related fields
- Statement of purpose highlighting career aspirations
How to Apply:
Details are available on the university’s website.
Why Study in Ireland?
1. World-Class Education
Ireland boasts prestigious universities such as Trinity College Dublin, University College Dublin, and University of Galway, consistently ranked among the best globally.
2. English-Speaking Environment
As the only English-speaking country in the European Union, Ireland is an excellent choice for international students who want to study in English.
3. Post-Study Work Opportunities
Ireland offers generous post-study work visa options, allowing international graduates to gain valuable work experience in the country.
FAQs
How much bank balance is required for an Ireland tourist visa?
The amount of bank balance required for an Ireland tourist visa is not fixed. The visa officer will assess your financial situation based on your individual circumstances. However, it is generally recommended to have a bank balance of around €50-100 (approximately Rs. 4,300 to Rs. 8,600) per day of your stay in Ireland. You will need to submit recent bank statements from the last three to six months as proof.
