One of Ireland’s leading research-intensive universities, University College Dublin (UCD) is now inviting applications for a range of fully-funded PhD scholarships for 2026. These prestigious scholarships cover tuition fees, include a generous living stipend, and often provide other financial support such as dedicated research funding – providing an unparalleled opportunity for high-level candidates the world over to undertake doctoral study in subjects ranging from Information and Communication Studies to Politics and International Relations.
Overview
UCD’s fully funded PhD positions are aimed at attracting the best and brightest students capable of independent research. Each award typically includes:
Tuition, up to four years
Annual tax-free stipend of €25,000–€27,000
Project-related research travel, equipment, and conference expenditure allowances
World-class facilities / structured doctoral training (30 ECTS)
What are the benefits?Experience, teaching, workshops and seminars leading to further professional development.
Who Can Apply
This funding is available to both EU and non-EU applicants. General eligibility criteria include:
An MSc awarded with merit (or equivalent; minimum GPA 3.08/4.0 or 2.1 UK honors).
IELTS level 6.5 (or equivalent) for candidates from countries where English is not a first language
Programme specific requirements – for example, Ad Astra Doctoral Scholarship applicants must obtain supervision in UCD’s School of Politics and International Relations
That coheres with leading flagship research programmes like the LivePlatforms ERC Advanced Grant
How to Apply
PG Applicants: UCD based applicants We always recruit students to work on projects in a variety of research areas within Nursing and Midwifery. After a potential supervisor has been found, have the following ready:
Brief research proposal (maximum 2,000 words) including objectives, methods and potential outcomes
A cover letter stating why you have selected UCD and the scholarship in question
Current CV with academic record and research experience.
All prior degree official transcripts
Two to three academic references
Evidence of English language abilities (where appropriate)
Applications should be made through the UCD Graduate Research portal. Shortlisted applicants will be interviewed online in February 2026, following an initial eligibility check.
Key Deadlines
Main application deadline: 19 January 2026 (most scholarships, including LivePlatforms PhD studentships)
Late deadline: 6 February 2026 (Ad Astra Doctoral Scholarships and selected discipline-specific awards)
Late submissions are not accepted. You are encouraged to be proactive and apply before the Evil Wizard makes you his personal assistant.
Next Steps
Begin by looking at UCD’s research themes and contacting potential supervisors. Write your proposal in DraftProposal early and get on your references, schedule English test if you need one. Having a good feasibility proposal and that it closely matches UCD’s research interests are important to being successful in achieving fully funding.
Taiwan Fully Funded Graduate Scholarship: Apply Now (2026 Entry Guide)
Full details and application: UCD Graduate Studies scholarships webpage: Click here to apply.
Get the advantage with a funded PhD at UCD – where cutting-edge research sits alongside world-class innovation.
