Irish Diaspora Education Alliance (IDEA) Scholarship

Other eligibility requirements

The IDEA Scholarship supports high-achieving students of Irish heritage or friends of the Irish diaspora in the United States who wish to strengthen their connection to Ireland while studying at Dublin City University. Recipients must commence full-time undergraduate or postgraduate study at DCU in September 2026.

The scholarship promotes academic exchange and cultural engagement between Ireland and the Irish-American community, while attracting talented students and emerging professionals to DCU.

The scholarship is open to United States students admitted to a full-time undergraduate or postgraduate programme at DCU who have met all admissions requirements, accepted their offer, and paid the required deposit by the deadline. Selection is based on academic merit and the applicant’s personal statement. The scholarship cannot be combined with other DCU awards and may not be deferred.

Entry Requirements/Eligibility

Apply and receive an offer to a full-time undergraduate or postgraduate degree programme at DCU. Part-time programmes are not eligible.
United States students of Irish heritage or friends of the Irish diaspora
Fulfil all the admissions requirements, accept the offer, and pay the deposit by the deadline.
Submit a Personal Statement which demonstrates a strong heritage or interest in Irish culture, community, or values (if applicable, include a reference to engagement with a cultural Irish or Irish-American Institution in the United States or abroad. For example, Irish Gaelic Clubs, Irish Dance Institutes, Irish Cultural Centres, and others) 

• The postgraduate applicant's personal statement should be sent via email.
• The undergraduate applicant's personal statement should be sent via email.

Must be prepared to engage with events, marketing, and social media as an ambassador for DCU during their studies and as an alumnus.