Ireland offers English-taught PhDs with funding from Research Ireland and university scholarships.
PhD opportunities in Ireland
Why do a PhD in Ireland?
- English-speaking EU country
- Research Ireland (formerly SFI/IRC) funding
- Strong pharma and tech industry
Universities in Ireland
Well-known research universities and institutes for PhD study in Ireland include:
- Trinity College Dublin
- University College Dublin
- University of Galway
- University College Cork
- Dublin City University
Choose a university by your supervisor and research group, not the overall ranking — fit with the group decides most PhD outcomes.
PhD structure
Structured PhDs include taught modules, a thesis and a viva examination.
Fees and funding
Fees: International fees apply unless covered by the studentship.
Main funded routes: Research Ireland (Irish Research Council) awards, university scholarships and research grants.
Official starting points: Research Ireland
See PhD funding by country to compare routes across 46 countries, or estimate your budget with the study cost calculator.
Applying for a PhD in Ireland
Apply for funded studentships or contact supervisors; Research Ireland runs a national postgraduate scheme.
Language: English.
Your application checklist
- CV with research experience and any publications
- Research proposal or statement written for the project or supervisor — see our research proposal guide
- Master's (and undergraduate) transcripts and degree certificates; for Pakistanis, HEC-attested copies
- Two or three academic references — see our recommendation letter guide
- English test score or proof of English-medium study, if required
- Interview preparation — see our interview guide
Student visas and work
Visa: Non-EEA students need a study visa (Stamp 2).
Working during your PhD: Students may work 20 hours a week in term time.
After your PhD
Graduates can apply for a Stamp 1G stay-back permission.
Open PhD opportunities in Ireland
University of Limerick — 2 MSCA PhD Positions in Circular Electronics & Automated Remanufacturing (Ireland)
University of Limerick — ECODESIGN Doctoral Network (MSCA)
Ireland
- Fully funded, Salary
- Open to all nationalities
- Study level: PhD
- 3 years
Government of Ireland International Education Scholarship (GOI-IES)
Higher Education Authority (HEA), Ireland
Ireland
- Fully funded, Stipend, Tuition waiver
- Open to all nationalities
- Study level: Master's, PhD
- 1 year
This guide gives an overview for international applicants. Rules on fees, funding and visas change — always confirm the details on the university, funder and embassy websites before you apply.
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