EDUCATION IN IRELAND: A guide for protection applicants, those with refugee status, subsidiary protection or permission to remain.
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Information Booklet
2020/2021
7
EDUCATION IN IRELAND:
A guide for protection applicants, those with refugee
status, subsidiary protection or permission to remain.
Supported by
Updated : 28 May 2020
This is a living document that is frequently updated, please see www.irishrefugeecouncil.ie/education for current version.
Contents Page No.
A guide to the Irish education system ……………………………………………. 3
QQI (Quality and Qualification Ireland) ………………………………………… 3
NARIC (for Recognition of non-Irish Qualifications) ……………………….. 3
NFQ (National Framework of Qualification in Ireland) …………………. 4
Further Education (PLC Post Leaving Certificate) …………………………... 5
Higher Education (Third Level Education) ……………………………………… 7
How do you apply to go to University in Ireland? ……………………………. 8
How much does it cost to go to University in Ireland? ……………………. 9
Student Grants (provided by the Department of Education) ………….. 11
Map of Ireland showing locations of scholarships ………………………….. 13
Scholarships (provided by Universities) ………………. ………………………… 14
Scholarships (provided by Institutes of Technology) ……………………… 25
Postgraduate Funding …………………………………………………………………… 32
IRC Education Fund ………………………………………………………………………… 33
Useful information ……………….……………………………………………………….. 35
Useful Websites …………………………………………………………………………….. 38
Online Courses ………………………………………………………………………………. 39
This document has been authored by Charlotte Byrne, Education Officer, Irish Refugee Council.
To request information be updated, please contact her at education@irishrefugeeconcil.ie
2 All information is for guidance only, it is not complete and any errors are unintentional.
Please consult the relevant websites for accurate information
A guide to the Irish education system
This booklet primarily focuses on education for people over the age of 18 – generally called
further education, higher education and/or third level education
See links below if you are looking for information regarding preschool education (children
age 3-5), primary education (children age 4-12) or secondary education (children age 12-18)
Department of Education and Skills : Irish Education System
Department of Education and Skills : A Guide for Parents
Department of Education and Shills : Early Childhood / Pre-school
Citizens Information : Overview of the Irish Education System
Citizens Information : Early Childhood Care and Education Scheme
Quality and Qualification Ireland (www.qqi.ie )
QQI is an independent State agency responsible for promoting quality and accountability in
education and training services in Ireland. See here for more information.
They also facilitate the recognition of foreign qualifications through NARIC (see below).
QQI are responsible for developing and maintaining the Irish National Framework of
Qualifications (NFQ) – more on page 4.
QQI was established in 2012 and is an amalgamation of several previous State bodies
including the Further Education and Training Awards Council (FETAC).
Although FETAC has not been in existence for many years now you will frequently hear
people refer to courses as FETAC Level 5 or 6 etc. They really mean QQI Level 5 or 6, it’s the
same thing.
See more about these levels with NFQ on page 4.
NARIC – Recognition of non-Irish Qualifications (www.naric)
NARIC Ireland provides advice on the academic recognition of a foreign qualification by
comparing it, where possible, to a major award type and level on the Irish National
Framework of Qualifications (NFQ).
Generally NARIC can only provide comparability statements for wholly completed
qualifications. See www.naric.ie for further details.
All information is for guidance only, it is not complete and any errors are unintentional. 3
Please consult the relevant websites for accurate information
National Framework of Qualification in Ireland (www.nfq.ie )
Since 2003 the Irish NFQ have established a framework through which all learning
achievements may be measured and related to each other in a coherent way.
Most education courses in Ireland are identified as Level 1 – 10 (see diagram below)
At the end of secondary school students (typically age 18) complete their Leaving Certificate
(level 5)
An Undergraduate Degree is level 7 or 8 (and lasts 3 or 4 years)
A Postgraduate (Masters) Degree is level 9 (and lasts 1 or 2 years)
A Doctorate (PhD) is level 10 (and generally takes 3 or 4 years to complete)
Between the Leaving Cert (level 5) and Undergraduate Degree (level 8) there are many
courses at levels 5, 6 and 7. These can be very useful particularly if English is not your first
language but you have previous education in a specific area. They will help you to learn the
vocabulary of your chosen study area before progressing to a degree. These one-year
courses will also help you to integrate and understand the Irish education system.
Levels 5 and 6 are also a great way to prepare for an Undergraduate Degree (level 7 or 8)
Levels 5 and 6 are an alternative entry path to University instead of the Leaving Certificate
4 All information is for guidance only, it is not complete and any errors are unintentional.
Please consult the relevant websites for accurate information
FURTHER EDUCATION
Further Education - (PLC) Post Leaving Cert Education (Levels 5 & 6)
Further Education is often what people do after their Leaving Certificate as an alternative to
going to University, or what mature students will do to gain skills and education.
These PLC courses offer an alternative entry to Third Level Education (often called Higher
Education) instead of having to complete the Leaving Certificate.
There are many courses all around the country at level 5 and 6 which are generally full-time
and last for one academic year (September – May).
If you have obtained a work permit you can apply to do a post leaving cert course (PLC)
(level 5 and 6). If you don’t have a work permit apply anyway because you may be accepted.
PLC courses are generally provided by the Education & Training Board. There are 16 ETBs
covering the whole country. Find your local ETB here and see list on the next page.
Within each ETB you will find a list of local Colleges of Further Education and Community
Colleges. Your local secondary school may also provide adult and further education courses.
Apply directly to your local College of Further Education or Community College if you are
interested in Further Education or Adult Education courses.
All information is for guidance only, it is not complete and any errors are unintentional. 5
Please consult the relevant websites for accurate information
Education and Training Boards (ETBs) in Ireland
6 All information is for guidance only, it is not complete and any errors are unintentional.
Please consult the relevant websites for accurate information
HIGHER EDUCATION
Higher Education / Third Level Education
Most Third Level Universities/Colleges (HEIs or Higher Education Institutes) are publicly
funded, but there are private colleges too. It is very important to only apply to approved
publicly funded HEIs if you want to apply for a State Student Grant (see page 11).
These publicly funded Universities & Colleges include:-
8 Universities
o DCU Dublin City University
o MU Maynooth University
o NUIG National University of Ireland Galway
o Trinity Trinity College Dublin
o TU Dublin Technological University Dublin
o UCC University College Cork
o UCD University College Dublin
o UL University of Limerick
11 Institutes of Technology (ITs)
o AIT Athlone Institute of Technology
o DkIT Dundalk Institute of Technology
o GMIT Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology
o IADT Dun Laoghaire Institute of Art, Design & Technology
o IT Carlow Institute of Technology Carlow
o CIT Cork Institute of Technology
o IT Sligo Institute of Technology Sligo
o IT Tralee Institute of Technology Tralee
o LyIT Letterkenny Institute of Technology
o LIT Limerick Institute of Technology
o WIT Waterford Institute of Technology
8 Other HEIs
o MIE Marino Institute of Education, Dublin
o MIC Mary Immaculate College, Limerick
o NCAD National College of Art and Design, Dublin
o NCI National College of Ireland, Dublin
o RSCI Royal College of Surgeons Ireland, Dublin
o Pontifical University, St. Patrick’s College, Maynooth
o St. Angela’s College, Sligo
o St. Nicholas Montessori College Ireland, Dun Laoghaire
REMEMBER – you cannot apply for a State Grant if you apply to a college not on this list.
This list is subject to change throughout the year so always check the website list here.
All information is for guidance only, it is not complete and any errors are unintentional. 7
Please consult the relevant websites for accurate information
HOW TO APPLY TO GO TO
UNIVERSITY IN IRELAND
Post-graduate degrees (level 9) and Doctorate/PhD (level 10)
(1) You should contact the school in the college/university of your choice to ask if you should apply
to them directly or through the Postgraduate Application Centre.
(2) Then check pages 14-32 as some universities offer scholarships to their postgrad (level 9)
programmes. It is quite difficult to find funding for a Doctorate/PhD (level 10). You could look here
(Irish Research Council) and here (findaphd.com). Some further suggestions on page 32.
(3) Additionally some colleges will advertise funded PhDs to conduct research in specific areas.
Undergraduate degrees (level 7 & 8)
(1) You should apply for the COURSE of your choice through the Central Applications Office (CAO) –
more details below.
(2) You should apply for a SCHOLARSHIP (to the University/College of your choice) – see pages 14-31
– but please read below about the CAO first.
(CAO) Central Applications Office (for Higher Education Levels 7 & 8 only)
The Universities and Institutes of Technology (ITs) in Ireland have delegated to the CAO the
task of processing centrally applications to their undergraduate courses.
Online application opens in November for courses starting the following September.
If you apply before 20th January the application fee is €30.
If you apply before 1st February the application fee is €45 (the normal closing date).
If you apply before 1st May the application fee is €60 (this is the late applications date).
You really should apply before 1st February because not all HEIs will accept late applications,
if you have missed this deadline it is worth calling the admissions office to ask.
To apply to University in Ireland you need to enter via one of these routes :-
o Irish Leaving Certificate (or accepted equivalent)
o QQI/FETAC Qualification Level 5/6
o Mature Student
o Students with Disabilities (DARE)
o Higher Education Access Route (HEAR) students from socio-economically
disadvantaged backgrounds
o Access Programme
The Citizens Information website is also an excellent source of information regarding the College
Education Application Procedure, see here for further details.
8 All information is for guidance only, it is not complete and any errors are unintentional.
Please consult the relevant websites for accurate informationHOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO GO
TO UNIVERSITY IN IRELAND?
It is important to understand the following criteria in order to answer the question of cost.
(1) Residency - to be eligible for Free (Tuition) Fees you must be resident within the EU for 3
of the last 5 years (This applies to Irish citizens as much as it does to
international protection applicants)
(2) Nationality - essentially you need a stamp 4 to be eligible for Free (Tuition) Fees and to
apply for a state grant (SUSI), however not all stamp 4 visas are entitled to
Free (Tuition) Fees. There is a detailed list you can find here on the Higher
Education Authorities (HEA) website. We are currently seeking clarification
regarding Permission to Remain under S49 of the 2015 IPA.
International (non-EU) or EU Fees
Each University/College decides the rate of fee to be paid
If you do not qualify for Free (Tuition) Fees (see below) typically the University/College will
seek to charge you the International (non-EU) rate which could be €10,000-€15,000 per year
Being autonomous (they can make some of their own rules) some Universities and Institutes
of Technology will quote the EU rate to people in the international protection system even
without the normally required status provided you have been in Ireland for three years
If you are charged non EU fees by the HEI but you are approved a State Grant (SUSI) then
SUSI will pay the non EU fee on your behalf
Free (Tuition) Fees
Free Fees does not actually mean ‘free’ fees (even for Irish Citizens)
It means the state pays a portion of the ‘annual fee’ called the ‘tuition fee’ while the student
pays the ‘student contribution’ charge and usually a student centre levy
Typically the EU fee is approximately €6,000 per year for an undergraduate degree – if you
are entitled to ‘free’ fees the state pays €3,000 and the student pays €3,000 per year (there
will be some variations but for a typical degree this is about correct)
Some students are also entitled to State-funded Student Grants, these grants will pay the
student contribution of €3,000 and also a maintenance grant currently €1,215 per annum
(further details on page 11 – SUSI grant and Student Support Scheme)
To qualify for Free (Tuition) Fees the student must satisfy the following criteria:-
o Be resident for 3 out of the 5 last years in the EU/EEA/Swiss State
o Be a first-time undergraduate
o Be attending full-time course generally of more than two years duration
o Possess refugee status or similar as listed here
o The course must be followed in one of the eligible institutions
o Note that Free Tuition Fees are not payable when attending private colleges
o Repeat years are not eligible except in exceptional circumstances
Full criteria regarding Free Fees and the Universities/Colleges to which it applies can be
found here
All information is for guidance only, it is not complete and any errors are unintentional. 9
Please consult the relevant websites for accurate informationStudent Grants (provided by the Department of Education)
SUSI Grant (Student Universal Support Ireland) - This is the student grant scheme available
to Irish students as well as international asylum applicants who have received their refugee
status, subsidiary protection or permission to remain (see page 11 for further details)
Student Support Scheme - This is a student grant similar to the SUSI grant except it is for
people who are still in the asylum application process (see page 11 for further details)
Scholarships (provided by Universities & Colleges)
Since 2015 the Universities and Colleges listed below have introduced their own scholarships
specifically for people currently or previously in the International Protection Process
See pages 14-30 for further details
o NUIG National University of Ireland Galway
o DCU Dublin City University
o UL University of Limerick
o UCD University College Dublin
o UCC University College Cork
o AIT Athlone Institute of Technology
o LIT Limerick Institute of Technology
o Trinity Trinity College Dublin
o IT Carlow Institute of Technology Carlow
o IADT Institute of Art, Design & Technology, Dun Laoghaire
o CIT Cork Institute of Technology
o IT Tralee Institute of Technology Tralee
o GMIT Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology
o LyIT Letterkenny Institute of Technology
o MU Maynooth University
o IT Sligo Institute of Technology Sligo
o NCI National College of Ireland
At present the following Universities and Colleges do not offer scholarships, but please
check back next week as we are hoping for some good news for September 2020
o DkIT Dundalk Institute of Technology
o TU Dublin Technological University Dublin
o WIT Waterford Institute of Technology
10 All information is for guidance only, it is not complete and any errors are unintentional.
Please consult the relevant websites for accurate informationSTATE FUNDED STUDENT GRANTS
SUSI (Student Universal Support Ireland)
Applicable to people with status
This is the student grant scheme available to Irish students as well as international asylum
applicants who have received their refugee status, subsidiary protection or permission to
remain.
You must have stamp 4 (please check the SUSI Nationality Criteria for details of precisely
which stamp 4 is acceptable)
You must reside in Ireland for 3 of the last 5 years
You must apply to an approved course at an approved college
You must be progressing in your education (see NFQ on page 4)
https://susi.ie/previous-education-and-progression-undergraduate/
Your Income must fall below specified thresholds
Provides for PLC maintenance but not fees
Provides for Undergraduate maintenance and fees
Provides for Postgraduate maintenance and fees in some cases
Will provide for full-time study only
Full details available here https://susi.ie
Open for applications from 23 April 2020 for September 2020 entry
Apply early for both renewal grants and new applications
Student Support Scheme
Applicable to people currently in the international protection process
This is a student grant similar to the SUSI grant except it is for people who are still in the
asylum application process
You must have spent at least 3 years in secondary school in Ireland
You must be at least 3 years in the international protection process
You cannot be on a deportation order
Application for entry to your course through CAO before 01 February for all students (in
some cases a Late Application will be accepted before 01 May but you need to contact the
college to ask if they will accept it)
You must be progressing in your education (see NFQ on page 4)
Full details and application form here https://www.education.ie/en/Learners/Services/Pilot-
Support-Scheme/
The scheme has not been officially announced for 2020 but it has run each year since
2015 – we will update this booklet as soon as we receive notification
All information is for guidance only, it is not complete and any errors are unintentional. 11
Please consult the relevant websites for accurate information1916 Bursary
Applicable to people with status
This bursary was introduced in 2017 and supports students from sections of society that are
significantly under-represented in higher education
200 bursaries are available each year until 2023
The bursary is €5,000 per year
All 8 Universities and 11 institutes of Technology listed on page 7 offer this bursary as well as
MIE, MIC and NCAD (also listed on page 7)
These bursaries may be provided to full-time or part-time students
Applications for a 1916 Bursary should be made directly to the Higher Education Institute of
your choice.
Closing dates may vary, check with your University/College.
The 2020 guidelines are available now, see here for full details
OTHER STUDENT GRANTS
Uversity
Applicable to people with status
Uversity is a registered charity that has been awarding higher education scholarships to
adult learners since 2018
Preference is given to students enrolling on full-time programmes
Scholarships are for adult learners to enrol on a Bachelor’s Degree for the first time
You need to be at least age 23 on 1st January 2020
You need to be resident in Ireland for 3 years or more on 20th April 2020
You need to have applied to or have a deferred offer for 1st year on an undergraduate
programme
Full details are available here
Closing Date is 20 April 2020
12 All information is for guidance only, it is not complete and any errors are unintentional.
Please consult the relevant websites for accurate informationMap showing location of scholarships
Direct Provision Centre (recently opened
emergency centres are not shown on this map)
Institute of Technology Areas of the country where
we need more scholarships
University
Scholarships available
All information is for guidance only, it is not complete and any errors are unintentional. 13
Please consult the relevant websites for accurate informationUNIVERSITY SCHOLARSHIPS
DCU (Dublin City University)
Campus-Based Undergraduate Scholarships
DCU is a University of Sanctuary
5 places available
Available to asylum applicants and Refugees ineligible for state supports
If you are under 23 you must have completed the Irish Leaving Certificate or have completed
a fulltime QQI/FETAC Level 5 qualification
Scholarship includes Student Contribution and Tuition Fee Waiver, &
Monthly Financial Subsidy
Priority will be given to candidates in Reception and Integration Agency (RIA)
accommodation but will consider applications outside of RIA accommodation.
Candidates must live within DCU's catchment area with direct transportation links
(unfortunately we cannot accept applications from those in temporary accommodation).
Application for entry to the course through CAO before 01 Feb 2020 for all students (in some
cases a Late Application will be accepted before 01 May but you need to contact the college
to ask if they will accept it)
Application for Scholarship directly to DCU, see
https://www.dcu.ie/sanctuary/scholarships.shtml
Queries regarding these 5 scholarships to sanctuary@dcu.ie
Closing Date is 5.00pm, Wednesday 1st July 2020
DCU (Dublin City University)
DCU Connected Online Undergraduate &
Post-graduate Scholarship
DCU is a University of Sanctuary
5 places available
The DCU Connected Scholarships cover the costs of a 60 credit online undergraduate or
postgraduate programme of study which can be shown to clearly benefit recipients in
advancing their personal ambitions and personal goals.
The Scholarship also provides funding to support Internet access and the purchase of
relevant textbooks and related study costs.
Application form and details can be found here https://www.dcu.ie/connected/university-
sanctuary.shtml
Queries regarding these online scholarships to colum.foley@dcu.ie
Closing Date is Monday 10th August 2020
14 All information is for guidance only, it is not complete and any errors are unintentional.
Please consult the relevant websites for accurate informationDCU (Dublin City University)
Online FutureLearn Scholarships
DCU is a University of Sanctuary
10 places available
The joint DCU FutureLearn scholarship initiative will enable refugees and protection
applicants living in Ireland to undertake unlimited study from a wide range of courses
offered on FutureLearn’s online platform though to certificates of completion.
The 10 DCU-FutureLearn Scholarships offer a one-year subscription to an unlimited number
of FutureLearn online short courses through to Certificate of Achievement.
For detailed information and application form, please see
www.dcu.ie/connected/university-sanctuary.shtml
Queries regarding these FutureLearn scholarships to colum.foley@dcu.ie
Closing Date is Monday 10th August 2020
MU (Maynooth University)
Full-time Undergraduate & Postgraduate Scholars
MU is a University of Sanctuary
3 places available
Scholarship includes Full Tuition Fee Waiver plus
Transport, Food, Academic Support, Laptop
Application for entry to undergraduate courses through CAO before 01 Feb 2020 for all
students (in some cases a Late Application will be accepted before 01 May but you need to
contact the college to ask if they will accept it)
Application for entry to postgraduate courses through the Postgraduate Applications Centre.
Postgraduate applicants will be asked to submit an initial expression of interest form and
then they will be supplied with further instructions about applying for their course.
Application for scholarship directly to MU, see here for details and application form
All queries to sanctuary@mu.ie
Closing Date is 15 June 2020
All information is for guidance only, it is not complete and any errors are unintentional. 15
Please consult the relevant websites for accurate informationNUIG (National University of Ireland, Galway)
Full-time Undergraduate & Postgraduate Scholarships
Details for 2020 to be finalised, please check back next week
? undergraduate places available (level 8)
? postgraduate places available (level 9)
Scholarship includes Full Tuition Fee Waiver &
Annual subsistence payment
Application for entry to undergraduate courses through CAO before 01 Feb 2020 for all
students (in some cases a Late Application will be accepted before 01 May but you need to
contact the college to ask if they will accept it)
Application for entry to postgraduate courses directly to NUIG Postgraduate Application
Centre
Application for scholarship directly to NUIG http://www.nuigalway.ie/sanctuary/
All queries to uni.sanctuary@nuigalway.ie
Closing Date to be confirmed
NUIG (National University of Ireland, Galway)
Access Programmes
Access Programme for School Leavers (age 22 and under)
PLEASE NOTE THE COURSE MAY BE ONLINE FOR THE 2020/2021 ACADEMIC YEAR
This Access Programme provides an opportunity for students who are generally under-
represented at third level to progress to University. Access programmes are designed to
provide a supportive educational environment which prepare students academically and
personally for an undergraduate programme at third level.
Courses held at NUIG Galway Campus, Ballinasloe College of Further Education, and St.
Angela’s Sligo.
Applications are now open for school leavers who have already completed a Leaving
Certificate or QQI level 5/6 or equivalent
* Closing Date is 5pm 20th May 2020
* Applications for school leavers sitting their Leaving Certificate in 2020 will open late
summer
Full details available here
Queries to access@nuigalway.ie
16 All information is for guidance only, it is not complete and any errors are unintentional.
Please consult the relevant websites for accurate informationAccess Programme for Mature Students (age 23 and over)
PLEASE NOTE THE COURSE MAY BE ONLINE FOR THE 2020/2021 ACADEMIC YEAR
The Access Course is a 1 year full-time/part-time daytime/evening course that aims to
provide mature students (aged 23 or over on year of entry to a degree programme) with the
opportunity to prepare, personally and academically, for an undergraduate course of full-
time study of at least three years duration at NUI, Galway.
Courses held at NUIG Galway Campus, Ballinasloe College of Further Education, and St.
Angela’s Sligo.
Closing Date is 5pm 20th May 2020
Full details available here
Queries to maturestudents@nuigalway.ie
Ballinasloe Access Programme
PLEASE NOTE THE COURSE MAY BE ONLINE FOR THE 2020/2021 ACADEMIC YEAR
The Ballinasloe Access Programme is a free, part-time programme of one academic year in
duration delivered out of our outreach centre in the Ballinasloe College of Further
Education. The programme is designed for school leavers (22 and under on year of entry to a
degree programme) and mature students (23 or above on year of entry to a degree
programme) who have a desire to study at third level but are unable due to financial and
social reasons.
* Closing Date is 5pm 20th May 2020
* Applications for school leavers sitting their Leaving Certificate in 2020 will open late
summer
Full details available here
Queries to access@nuigalway.ie
NUI Galway & GMIT Joint Foundation Diplomas for Mature Students
Part-Time JFSD Science, Technology and Engineering, Applications opens July and close
August– Fee applies €60
Part-Time JFSD8 Business, Law & Arts, Applications open July and close August – fee applies
€60
Enquiries to trish.bourke@nuigalway.ie or access@nuigalway.ie
Full details at Part-Time Courses for Prospective Mature Students
GMIT Castlebar for Mature Students:
Part-Time in GMIT’s Castlebar Campus JFSD9 Business, Law & Arts, Applications open July
and close August - fee applies €60
Enquiries to declan.hoban@gmit.ie
All information is for guidance only, it is not complete and any errors are unintentional. 17
Please consult the relevant websites for accurate informationSt. Angela’s College, Sligo
Undergraduate Scholarship
Details for 2020 to be finalised, please check back next week
Number of places available yet to be confirmed, please check back next week
Open to protection applicants / people with refugee status
Scholarship includes Full Tuition Fee Waiver &
Annual subsistence payment
Application for entry to undergraduate courses through CAO before 01 Feb 2020 for all
students (in some cases a Late Application will be accepted before 01 May but you need to
contact the college to ask if they will accept it)
Application for scholarship directly to St. Angela’s College (weblink to be added)
All queries to access@stangelas.nuigalway.ie
Closing Date 31 August 2020
St. Angela’s (Sligo) Access Programme
PLEASE NOTE THE COURSE MAY BE ONLINE FOR THE 2020/2021 ACADEMIC YEAR
The St. Angela’s College, Sligo Access Programme is a free, part-time programme of one
academic year in duration delivered out of St. Angela’s College, Sligo. The programme is
designed for school leavers (22 and under on year of entry to a degree programme) and
mature students (23 or above on year of entry to a degree programme) who have a desire to
study at third level but are unable due to financial and social reasons.
* Closing Date is 5pm 20th May 2020
* Applications for school leavers sitting their Leaving Certificate in 2020 will open late
summer
Full details available here
Enquiries to pwhite@atangelas.nuigalway.ie or sidolan@stangelas.nuigalway.ie
18 All information is for guidance only, it is not complete and any errors are unintentional.
Please consult the relevant websites for accurate informationTrinity College Dublin (Trinity)
Full-time Undergraduate Scholarship
4 places available
These are four-year full-time Level 8 Undergraduate degrees
The scholarships are open only to those living in Direct Provision or who are registered with
TUSLA or the State for accommodation within Dublin or within a commutable distance
Application for entry to undergraduate courses through CAO before 01 Feb 2020 for all
students
Scholarship open to those with Leaving Certificate or QQI/FETAC within the past two years
including Mature Students (please note Mature Student CAO application closed on Feb 1st)
Applicants must be attending University for the first time
Scholarship covers all fees &
Annual Stipend of €1500 payable monthly
A laptop (where possible and practicable)
On-campus food allowance
Public transport costs (within commutable distance of Trinity)
Application for scholarship, see www.tcd.ie/study/apply/asylum-seeker-access-provision/
Queries to academic.registry@tcd.ie with “ASAP Scholarships” in the subject line
Closing Date is Friday 3rd July 2020
All information is for guidance only, it is not complete and any errors are unintentional. 19
Please consult the relevant websites for accurate informationTU Dublin (Technological University Dublin)
Access Foundation Programme
The Access Foundation Programme is a one-year full-time programme to prepare students,
both personally and academically, to pursue undergraduate programmes offered in TU
Dublin.
Graduates from the programme progress to undergraduate courses across the range of
disciplines offered at the university, including Science and Health, IT and Computing,
Engineering and Built Environment, Social Science, Business, Hospitality, Arts and Tourism.
We offer guidance and support during the year to help students to identify undergraduate
options. Those who successfully complete the programme will be offered a place on a
suitable undergraduate course at TU Dublin.
The programme forms part of TU Dublin’s commitment to extending access to education to
people from communities lacking a strong tradition of participation in third-level
education. The programme is of particular benefit to adults who have been out of education
for a long time, or who did not complete a Leaving Certificate. In addition, we welcome
applications from people whose skills no longer allow them to access the labour market.
The Access Foundation Programme is free for participants. People in the international
protection process are eligible to apply.
Applications directly to TU Dublin, see https://tudublin.ie/study/undergraduate/how-to-
apply/entry-pathways/access-foundation-programme/
Queries on the application process to johanna.king@tudublin.ie.
Closing Date is 15th May 2020 (for first round applications).
TU Dublin (Technological University Dublin)
Undergraduate Scholarship
Unavailable at present, please check back next week
20 All information is for guidance only, it is not complete and any errors are unintentional.
Please consult the relevant websites for accurate informationUCC (University College Cork)
Full-time Undergraduate Scholarship
UCC is a University of Sanctuary
5 places available
These are three or four-year full-time Level 8 Undergraduate degrees
Available to asylum applicants or those with status but ineligible for state support
Applicants must be living within a commutable distance to UCC
Preference is given to people who have not had the opportunity to study or complete
undergraduate education
You will be assigned an academic mentor to help you understand your preferred course and
to support your application where possible
Scholarship includes Student Contribution and Tuition Fee Waiver plus A Bursary
Application for entry to the course through CAO before 01 February for all students (in some
cases a Late Application will be accepted before 01 May but you need to contact the college
to ask if they will accept it)
Scholarship open to those with Leaving Certificate or QQI/FETAC or Mature Student (please
note Mature Student CAO application closed on February 1st)
Application for scholarship directly to UCC
Full details and application form available at UCC Sanctuary Scholarship
All enquiries to ediunit@ucc.ie
Closing Date is 5pm Tuesday 5th May 2020
UCC (University College Cork)
Part-time Adult Continuing Education (ACE)
UCC is a University of Sanctuary
Up to 20 places available
Adult Continuing Education (ACE) at UCC welcomes applications for part-time courses from
protection applicants and those who have received their status (refugee, subsidiary
protection, & permission to remain)
Adult Continuing Education’s purpose is to provide opportunities in lifelong learning for all
adults irrespective of age and previous educational achievements
Scholarship includes a fee waiver
These courses are open to people who are not eligible for typical social welfare entitlements
Applicants must meet the specific entry requirements for their chosen course
For further information see here
All queries to ace@ucc.ie
Closing Date is 28th August 2020
All information is for guidance only, it is not complete and any errors are unintentional. 21
Please consult the relevant websites for accurate informationUCD (University College Dublin)
Open Learning Scholarship
UCD is a University of Sanctuary
Open Learning Scholarships are currently only available to people with Refugee Status,
Subsidiary Protection and Permission to Remain
Scholarships covers the cost of up to six Open Learning modules during the year
This is a part-time programme, three modules per semester are recommended if you are
aiming to earn a certificate, but this is flexible so you can take one or four per semester,
whatever works best for you
It can then be used as an entry path to some (but not all) full-time undergraduate degrees at
UCD
Further information can be found here
All queries to all@ucd.ie or call 01 716 7123
Pre-registration for September 2020 will open in July 2020
UCD (University College Dublin)
University Access Programme (Age 22+)
Details for 2020 to be finalised, please check back next week
UCD is a University of Sanctuary
Number of places available yet to be confirmed
These one-year part-time Access courses are designed to prepare adults, who may not have
formal qualifications, for successful study at university. These are Special Purpose Awards
(Level 6) which equip mature students with the skills and confidence required to take the
next step to selected degree courses in UCD
Available to asylum applicants or those with status but ineligible for state supports
You must have been age 22 or over on 1st January 2020
Support includes Full Tuition Fee Waiver &
An annual financial bursary of €1,437
Priority is given to students who have been in the International Protection System for more
than one year
Application for entry to the course is made directly to UCD http://www.ucd.ie/access
Application for scholarship available at
http://www.ucd.ie/all/cometoucd/financialsupport/scholarships/pilotschemeforrefugeesan
dasylumseekers/
Further information and queries to thomond.coogan@ucd.ie or mature.student@ucd.ie
Closing Date to be advised
22 All information is for guidance only, it is not complete and any errors are unintentional.
Please consult the relevant websites for accurate informationUCD (University College Dublin)
Full-time Undergraduate & Postgraduate Scholarship
Details for 2020 to be finalised, please check back next week
UCD is a University of Sanctuary
Number of places available yet to be confirmed
These are three or four-year full-time Level 8 undergraduate degrees and one or
two-year Level 9 postgraduate degrees
Available to asylum applicants or those with status but ineligible for state supports
Priority given to those who came through the UCD Access Programme
Support includes Full Tuition Fee Waiver &
An annual financial bursary of €2,875
Priority is given to
(a) students who have been in the International Protection System for more than one-year
(b) applicants who have completed the UCD Access Programme or UCD Open Learning and
(c) applicants living in Leinster / within a reasonable commuting distance of UCD
Application for entry to undergraduate courses is through CAO before 01 February for all
students (in some cases a Late Application will be accepted before 01 May but you need to
contact the college to ask if they will accept it)
Scholarship open to those with Leaving Certificate or QQI/FETAC or Mature Student (please
note Mature Student CAO application closed on February 1st)
Application for graduate entry courses is directly to the relevant school at UCD.
Application for scholarship directly to UCD, see here (you can leave your email address and
UCD will notify you with scholarship updates)
All student queries to all@ucd.ie or call 01 716 7123
Closing Date to be advised
An information and guidance session will be held on Tuesday 30th June for all those who
have registered their interest here
UCD (University College Dublin)
Lifelong Learning Programme
UCD is a University of Sanctuary
Complimentary places available on our short-term, interest-based programmes
We will be accepting applications for Autumn 2020 courses starting in August
For more information please email all@ucd.ie or call 01 716 7123
Further details will be updated here in the coming months
All information is for guidance only, it is not complete and any errors are unintentional. 23
Please consult the relevant websites for accurate informationUL (University of Limerick)
Mature Student Access Programme (Age 22+)
Details for 2020 to be finalised, please check back next week
UL is a University of Sanctuary
Number of places available yet to be confirmed
The Mature Student Access Certificate (MSAC) is a one-year full-time pre-
degree course designed for mature students who wish to develop or refresh key learning
skills, and to undertake some foundation level academic studies, before applying directly for
a degree programme
Available to international protection applicants
You must have been age 22 or over on 1st January 2020
Scholarship includes Full Tuition Fee Waiver
Annual subsistence may be provided
Application for entry to the course is made directly to UL, see here
Application for financial scholarship available here
Queries to ULSanctuary@ul.ie
Closing Date to be advised
UL (University of Limerick)
Full-time Undergraduate Scholarship
Details for 2020 to be finalised, please check back next week
UL is a University of Sanctuary
Number of places available yet to be confirmed
These are three or four-year full-time Level 8 undergraduate degrees
Available to international protection applicants or those with status but ineligible for state
supports
Available to most undergraduate programmes
Scholarship includes Full Tuition Fee Waiver &
Annual subsistence may be provided
Application for entry to the course through CAO before 01 Feb 2020 for all students (in some
cases a Late Application will be accepted before 01 May but you need to contact the college
to ask if they will accept it)
Application for financial scholarship to UL, see here
Queries to ULSanctuary@ul.ie
Closing Date to be advised
24 All information is for guidance only, it is not complete and any errors are unintentional.
Please consult the relevant websites for accurate informationINSTITUTES OF TECHNOLOGY :
SCHOLARSHIPS
AIT (Athlone Institute of Technology)
Access Course Scholarship
AIT is a College of Sanctuary
6 places available on the Access Programme
The Access Programme (Special Purpose Level 6) is intended for adult learners who wish to
study after a break in their formal educational experience and who may not have benefited
fully from, or have access to, previous educational experiences
Scholarship includes Full Tuition Fee Waiver
Open to all mature current and former residents of Athlone Accommodation Centre, Temple
Accommodation Centre and Longford Direct Provision Centres
Open to all mature asylum applicants.
Apply directly to AIT for course entry and scholarship
see here for application form https://www.ait.ie/uploads/downloads/AIT-Application-Form-
15-11.pdf
Queries to tryan@ait.ie
Closing Date is 1 Sep 2020
AIT (Athlone Institute of Technology)
Undergraduate Scholarship
AIT is a College of Sanctuary
3 places available
Scholarship includes Full Tuition Fee Waiver & Maintenance support
Preference is given to those who have completed the AIT Access Programme
Preference is given to all current and former residents of Athlone Accommodation Centre,
Temple Accommodation Centre and Longford Direct Provision Centres
Preference to asylum applicants who are or were unaccompanied minors in the care of Tusla
Application for entry to the course through CAO before 01 Feb 2020 for all students (in some
cases a Late Application will be accepted before 01 May but you need to contact the college
to ask if they will accept it)
Application for scholarship directly to AIT
Queries to tryan@ait.ie
Closing Date is 30 June 2020
All information is for guidance only, it is not complete and any errors are unintentional. 25
Please consult the relevant websites for accurate informationAIT (Athlone Institute of Technology)
ROLE (Refugee Online Education)
The Refugee Online Education (ROLE) programme is a shared project between New Horizon
(Athlone Refugee and Asylum Seeker Support) and Athlone Institute of Technology
This programme offers adult protection applicants resident on the Athlone Direct Provision
centre free access to Massive Open Online Courses (MOOC) in a wide range of subjects
The ROLE gateway to learning resources is now open.
More information can be found here
IT Carlow (Institute of Technology Carlow)
Undergraduate Scholarship
2 places available
Open to asylum applicants or those with status but ineligible for state supports
Scholarship includes Student Contribution and Tuition Fee Waiver
Scholarships may include maintenance support
Available to students in both Carlow and Wexford campuses
Application for entry to the course through CAO before 01 February for all students (in some
cases a Late Application will be accepted before 01 May but you need to contact the college
to ask if they will accept it)
Scholarship open to those with Leaving Certificate or QQI/FETAC or Mature Student (please
note Mature Student CAO application closed on February 1st)
Application for scholarship to Carlow Access Programme by completing and submitting an
application form available to download at https://www.itcarlow.ie/student-life/student-
services/access-itcarlow/carlow-access-programme.htm
Queries to access@itcarlow.ie
Closing Date is 1st March 2020
26 All information is for guidance only, it is not complete and any errors are unintentional.
Please consult the relevant websites for accurate informationCIT (Cork Institute of Technology)
Undergraduate Scholarship
3 places available
Open to asylum applicants or those with status but ineligible for state supports
Scholarship includes Student Contribution and Tuition Fee Waiver
Maintenance support may be available
No accommodation support available, students must be able to commute to CIT
Application for entry to the course through CAO before 01 February for all students (in some
cases a Late Application will be accepted before 01 May but you need to contact the college
to ask if they will accept it)
Application for scholarship directly to CIT, see CIT Sanctuary Scholarship
Queries to sanctuary@cit.ie
Please attend Information Session in CIT the 10 th of April 2020 (2-4pm, Meeting Room 1,
Student Centre, Bishopstown Campus).
Closing Date is 20th April 2020 at 5pm.
DkIT (Dundalk Institute of Technology)
Undergraduate Scholarship
Details for 2020 to be finalised, please check back next week
All information is for guidance only, it is not complete and any errors are unintentional. 27
Please consult the relevant websites for accurate informationIADT (Institute of Art, Design and Technology)
Undergraduate Scholarship
2 places available
Open to protection applicants, and those with status but ineligible for state support
Applicants must be living within a commutable distance to IADT
Scholarship includes Student Contribution and Tuition Fee Waiver
Maintenance support provided
Application for entry to the course through CAO before 01 February for most students (in
some rare cases a Late Application will be accepted before 01 May but you need to contact
the college to ask if they will accept it)
Application for scholarship directly to IADT
Queries to Sinead.mcentee@IADT.ie
Closing Date is 31st August 2020
GMIT (Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology)
Undergraduate Scholarship
2 places available on undergraduate programmes
Open to protection applicants in Ireland and ineligible for state support
Scholarships available to people entering higher education in Ireland for the first time
Scholarship covers student contribution, tuition fees, materials fees & a monthly
maintenance contribution
Application for entry to the course through CAO, normally before 01 February
Application for scholarship directly to GMIT - see No. 10 here or here for application form
Queries to admissions@gmit.ie
Closing Date is 30 June 2020
28 All information is for guidance only, it is not complete and any errors are unintentional.
Please consult the relevant websites for accurate informationLyIT (Letterkenny Institute of Technology)
Undergraduate Scholarship
3 places available
Open to protection applicants, those living in Direct Provision will be prioritised
Scholarships applicable to people entering first year and advanced entry applicants
Scholarship includes Full Student Contribution and Tuition Fee Waiver plus
A maintenance contribution
Application for entry to the course through CAO before 01 February for most students (in
some rare cases a Late Application will be accepted before 01 May but you need to contact
the college to ask if they will accept it)
Application for scholarship directly to LyIT – application form can be found here
Queries to brian.mcgonagle@lyit.ie
Closing Date is 28 May 2020
LIT (Limerick Institute of Technology)
Undergraduate Sanctuary Scholarship
10 places available
Open to protection applicants, those with status and those on family reunification
Scholarship includes Full Student Contribution and Tuition Fee Waiver plus
A maintenance contribution based on need may be provided
Application for entry to the course through CAO before 01 February for all students
Late Application may be accepted by direct entry to LIT by contacting LIT admissions office
directly at admissions@lit.ie
Application for scholarship directly to LIT in September following offer of place from CAO
Queries to anna.murphy@lit.ie
Closing Date is 30 September 2020
All information is for guidance only, it is not complete and any errors are unintentional. 29
Please consult the relevant websites for accurate informationIT Sligo (Institute of Technology Sligo)
Undergraduate Scholarship
5 places available
Open to protection applicants and living in Direct Provision in Globe House, Sligo
Scholarship includes Full Student Contribution and Tuition Fee Waiver
Maintenance contribution of €2,000 per annum
Application for entry to the course through CAO before 01 February
Scholarship open to those with Leaving Certificate or QQI/FETAC or Mature Student
Application for scholarship directly to IT Sligo
Full information available at www.itsligo.ie (direct link will be added soon)
Queries to McGloin.Linda@itsligo.ie
Closing Date is 1715 Friday 29th May 2020
IT Tralee (Institute of Technology Tralee)
Undergraduate Scholarship
1 place available
Open to protection applicants / people with refugee status, subsidiary protection or
permission to remain and ineligible for state support (other than the Direct Provision
allowance)
No accommodation support available, students must be able to commute to IT Tralee
Scholarship includes Full Student Contribution and Tuition Fee Waiver
No maintenance provision will be provided
Application for entry to the course through CAO before 01 February for most students (in
some rare cases a Late Application will be accepted before 01 May but you need to contact
the college to ask if they will accept it)
Application for scholarship directly to IT Tralee – see details and application form here
Queries to access @ittralee.ie
Closing Date is 5pm Thursday 3rd June 2020
30 All information is for guidance only, it is not complete and any errors are unintentional.
Please consult the relevant websites for accurate informationWIT (Waterford Institute of Technology)
Undergraduate Scholarship
Details for 2020 to be finalised, please check back next week.
OTHER HIGHER EDUCATION
INSTITUTES
NCI (National College of Ireland)
Full-time Undergraduate Scholars
2 places available
These are three or four year full time Level 8 undergraduate degrees
Applicants must meet the International Protection criteria and be ineligible for state
supports e.g. SUSI grant, Student Assistance Fund.
Applicants must live within a commuting distance to the NCI
Scholarship will cover the Student Contribution Fee and a waiver of tuition fee plus
an allowance to cover transport, on-campus food, and provision of a laptop device
Priority will be given to students coming from the FE sector under direct entry i.e. mature
students or where advanced entry is available.
Application for entry to undergraduate courses through CAO before 01 Feb 2020 for all
students (in some cases a Late Application will be accepted before 01 May but you need to
contact the college to ask if they will accept it)
Application for scholarship directly to NCI
Further details can be found here (weblink to be advised)
All queries to (email address to be advised)
Closing Date is 1st August 2020
All information is for guidance only, it is not complete and any errors are unintentional. 31
Please consult the relevant websites for accurate informationPOSTGRADUATE FUNDING
The state provides funding for Masters Degrees (level 9) to people with status - see SUSI on
page 11. (see chart on page 4 for education levels in Ireland)
Some universities offer scholarships for Masters Degrees (level 9), see pages 14-24, to
people with and without status.
It is rather difficult to source PhD/Doctorate (level 10) funding in Ireland for Irish citizens or
people with status, and even harder for protection applicants.
The list below may help you to find some funding for level 9 and 10 postgraduate courses.
(1) SUSU – Student Universal Support Ireland
https://susi.ie/eligibility/postgraduate-student/
(2) UCD Graduate Research Scholarship Initiative
https://www.ucd.ie/graduatestudies/feesfundingandscholarships/scholarships/ucdphdsch
olarshipinitiative/
(3) Research Funding Institutions
https://www.ucd.ie/graduatestudies/feesfundingandscholarships/researchfundinginstitutio
ns/
(4) This is a commercial site, it is a UK company but they also include Irish funding
opportunities
https://www.findaphd.com
(5) Euroaxess - they post PhD positions across Europe including Ireland
There is also EUROAXESS Ireland https://www.euraxess.ie/ which posts PhD positions over
Europe.
(6) Postgrad - Ireland's postgraduate course finder
https://www.postgrad.ie/show-me-the-money-how-to-fund-your-phd/
(7) Irish Research Council
http://research.ie
(8) Trinity College Dublin
https://www.tcd.ie/graduatestudies/phdawards/
Should anybody know of other funding sources, particularly for protection applicants I would be
pleased if you could let us know so that we can share with others. Please email
education@irishrefugeecouncil.ie, thank you.
32 All information is for guidance only, it is not complete and any errors are unintentional.
Please consult the relevant websites for accurate informationIRISH REFUGEE COUNCIL
EDUCATION FUND
The IRC Education Fund was established in 2015 with the help of the Community Foundation
for Ireland. Since 2016 the Fund has continued through the generosity of private and
corporate donations to whom we are extremely grateful (see page 32).
In order to help as many people as possible we generally fund level 5 and 6 courses,
however each year we also try to help some people with level 7 or 8 courses.
Application forms available from 01 July 2020 online, see ….
Forms must be fully complete and returned by 31 July 2020
We will advise all applicants if you are successful by 31 Aug 2020
We do no fund private courses/colleges
We recommend you attend colleges approved by SUSI because if you receive your papers
mid-course the SUSI grant will not fund your continuing education in private colleges.
See here for approved courses/colleges https://susi.ie/eligibility/undergraduate-
student/approved-institutionscourses-for-undergraduate-students/
Tips and advice when applying for funding with the IRC – PLEASE READ!
(1) No private colleges - we do not fund private colleges - because if you receive your papers mid-way
through a course at a private college you will not be able to apply for the government SUSI grant and you
will be stuck to pay the expensive fees to the end of your degree.
(2) We do not supply laptops generally from our education fund - we ask you if you need one on the
application form in case we receive funding for laptops.
(3) We cannot fund post-graduate (level 9) or PhD (level 10) programmes. Each year we try to fund a
small number of Level 8/7 students - we can only commit to funding for two years because our funds
come from donations received on an annual basis.
(4) If you tell us that you have received an offer of a place on a course, please attach the confirmation
from the college. It puts you ahead of those who don't supply confirmation, and it saves me the trouble
of having to chase you for it :-)
(5) Transport costs are a big problem. RIA rarely transfer anybody from one centre to another because of
an education course. For some of you I know this is very restrictive. If you ask for transport help, please
please do some research and find out exactly how much it will cost you to get to college for the full year
and explain that on the application form.
(6) Make sure your e-mail address is typed or written very clearly on our application form, it is the best
way for us to communicate with you. It is a very busy time of the year and so it is impossible for me to
return phone calls.
(7) When you make an application to a college don't be afraid to follow up with a visit / email / phone call
to check that they have received your application and to ask when you will be advised if you have a place
or not.
All information is for guidance only, it is not complete and any errors are unintentional. 33
Please consult the relevant websites for accurate informationYou can also read
