The 2025 Government of Ireland International Education Scholarships (GOI-IES); February 28, 2025
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Introduction
The Government of Ireland International Education Scholarships (GOI-IES) 2025 offers a prestigious opportunity for high-caliber international students to pursue their postgraduate studies in Ireland. The program, funded by the Irish government and managed by the Higher Education Authority (HEA), is designed to attract top talent from around the world and promote the internationalization of Irish higher education.
This article provides a detailed breakdown of the scholarship, including eligibility criteria, application process, benefits, evaluation process, and practical considerations for applicants.
Overview of GOI-IES
The GOI-IES scholarship is part of Ireland’s global education strategy and aims to enhance connections between Ireland and various countries. It provides financial support for international students seeking to study at NFQ levels 9 and 10—which include taught and research master’s degrees, postgraduate diplomas, and PhD programs.
For the 2025/2026 academic year, 60 scholarships will be awarded.
Key Features of the 2025 Government of Ireland International Education Scholarships (GOI-IES):
- A stipend of €10,000 for one academic year.
- Full tuition and registration fee waiver from the host institution.
- Open to all disciplines at eligible Irish Higher Education Institutions (HEIs).
- A highly competitive selection process based on merit.
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)
To be eligible for the GOI-IES scholarship, applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Be a non-EU/EEA, UK, or Swiss citizen.
- Receive an offer (conditional or final) from an eligible Irish higher education institution for:
- A taught master’s degree (at least one year long).
- A postgraduate diploma (NFQ Level 9) (at least one year long).
- A research master’s or PhD (at least one year long).
- Not be a previous recipient of a GOI-IES scholarship.
- Not be a Russian or Belarusian national (due to Ireland’s policy in response to the war in Ukraine).
Each candidate can submit up to three applications if they have multiple course offers.
Eligible Irish Higher Education Institutions
The GOI-IES applies only to specific Irish universities and colleges that provide full-time, in-person programs at NFQ Levels 9 and 10.
Some of the eligible institutions include:
- Trinity College Dublin (TCD)
- University College Dublin (UCD)
- University of Galway
- University College Cork (UCC)
- Dublin City University (DCU)
- University of Limerick (UL)
- Technological University Dublin (TU Dublin)
- Maynooth University
- Munster Technological University (MTU)
- South East Technological University (SETU)
- Atlantic Technological University (ATU)
- And many more.
For the complete list, refer to Appendix 1 in the Call Document.
2025 Government of Ireland International Education Scholarships (GOI-IES) Benefits
The GOI-IES scholarship provides the following financial benefits:
- A stipend of €10,000 to support living costs.
- Full waiver of tuition fees and registration fees for one academic year.
- Professional and personal development opportunities through participation in Irish academic and cultural programs.
- Networking with other GOI-IES scholars and Irish higher education institutions.
How to Apply for the GOI-IES Scholarship?
The application process is fully online, and candidates must complete and submit their applications via the designated portal.
Step-by-Step Application Process:
- Secure an admission offer from an eligible Irish HEI for a master’s, postgraduate diploma, or PhD program.
- Check the eligibility criteria and ensure you meet all conditions.
- Prepare the required documents, including:
- A personal statement explaining:
- The benefits of becoming a GOI-IES scholar.
- How the scholarship aligns with personal and professional goals.
- Plans to engage with Irish society during and after studies.
- Academic records (degree certificates and transcripts).
- Two reference letters uploaded through the online portal.
- A personal statement explaining:
- Submit the online application before the deadline: 5 PM (Irish time) on 5 March 2025.
- Wait for results, which will be announced in June 2025.
Evaluation and Selection Process
The selection process is highly competitive. Applications will be scored based on the following criteria:
- Academic excellence and work experience (40 marks).
- Personal statement (45 marks) covering:
- Personal and professional benefits (15 marks).
- Engagement with Irish society and internationalization (15 marks).
- Future plans to promote links with Ireland (15 marks).
- References from professors or professionals (15 marks).
Only candidates who score above 60 marks will be considered. The top 12 applicants will be automatically funded, and the remaining scholarships will be awarded based on institutional selection.
Key Considerations for Applicants
Visa Requirements
- If you require a visa, visit the Irish Immigration Service for guidance.
- Apply for your visa as soon as you receive the scholarship (delays can lead to scholarship loss).
- Family members may not be granted visas, so plan accordingly.
Living Costs in Ireland
- The €10,000 stipend may not cover all living expenses.
- Accommodation is expensive, especially in Dublin—start searching early.
- Ensure you have sufficient personal savings to cover the initial weeks in Ireland.
Restrictions and Exemptions
- Travel and study material expenses are NOT covered.
- The scholarship is for one year only and cannot be extended.
- Online, blended, or hybrid courses are NOT eligible.
- Deposits paid to universities will be refunded if your GOI-IES application is successful.
Important Deadlines
Where to Get More Information?
- GOI-IES Official Page: HEA Website
- Immigration & Visa Info: Irish Immigration Service
- Application Portal: Check HEA’s official website closer to the deadline.
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