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Study in Ireland | National University of Ireland Travelling PhD Studentships 2026

February 9, 2026 7:35 am

Study in Ireland | National University of Ireland Travelling PhD Studentships 2026

The National University of Ireland (NUI) has officially launched applications for its distinguished Travelling Doctoral Studentships 2026, a historic and prestigious research funding opportunity. Established over a century ago in 1910, this program acts as a powerful academic passport for doctoral candidates. Specifically, it enables outstanding researchers to conduct substantial portions of their PhD work at esteemed universities abroad, backed by generous financial support. Consequently, this studentship stands as one of the most compelling international mobility grants available for the upcoming academic year.

Transformative Funding and Core Benefits

This competitive scheme is meticulously designed for ambitious researchers seeking global exposure. For the 2026 cycle, the total award value reaches an impressive maximum of €33,000 per year. This comprehensive funding package directly supports your international research ambitions with the following allocations:

An annual stipend of €25,000 to cover living expenses abroad.
A significant tuition fee contribution of up to €8,000 per year, where applicable.
Full support to undertake doctoral research at leading global institutions.
Funding dedicated to substantial overseas research periods is integrated into your PhD.
The prestige of a historic award with a legacy spanning more than 110 years.

Therefore, winning this studentship provides both the financial freedom and the academic credibility to transform your doctoral journey.

Eligibility Criteria for Applicants

Prospective applicants must currently be part of the NUI academic community. The core eligibility requirements are as follows:

You must be a registered doctoral student within an NUI institution or its federal university system.
Your PhD research must clearly benefit from and require a period of international investigation.
Also, you must plan to conduct this research at a reputable university or research institute outside Ireland.
You need to demonstrate a strong record of academic merit and significant research potential.
Crucially, your application must articulate how the overseas experience will enhance your PhD and ultimately contribute value to the NUI community upon your return.
Additionally, a special collaborative studentship with the French Embassy in Ireland will be available for one applicant whose research involves French institutions or themes.

Required Documents

The application process is straightforward but demands careful preparation. All required materials must be submitted directly to the NUI Awards office.

To build a compelling application, you should begin preparing several key components well in advance:

A detailed and robust research proposal outlining the international component of your PhD.
Comprehensive academic transcripts and evidence of your doctoral registration.
A clear statement of purpose explaining the necessity of the overseas research period.
Formal confirmation of acceptance or invitation from your proposed host institution abroad.
Strong letters of recommendation from your principal PhD supervisor and other academic referees.

How to Apply

Access the official application guidelines and portal here:

Click Here to Apply

The absolute deadline for receipt of your complete application is 6 March 2026.

Why You Should Apply for This Premier Award

In summary, the NUI Travelling Doctoral Studentship offers far more than just funding. It represents a unique chance to integrate world-class resources and global perspectives directly into your doctorate. By facilitating research at an internationally renowned partner institution, this award accelerates your academic development and expands your professional network. Ultimately, it positions you for a future career as a research leader with a distinctive and competitive international profile.

If you are a PhD candidate within the NUI system with a vision for research that crosses borders, this is your definitive opportunity. Start preparing your application today to take a monumental step in your academic career.