The University of Galway’s Hardiman PhD Scholarships 2026 offer fully funded support for four years, including a €25,000 annual stipend and full tuition, for students starting their PhD on September 1, 2026. Applicants must secure a supervisor who submits a form by February 6, 2026, the same deadline for the main application and academic references.


University of Galway Hardiman PhD Scholarships 2026 Summary Table
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Host Country | Ireland |
| Institution | University of Galway |
| Category | PhD Scholarships |
| Eligible Countries | All Countries (Global Eligibility) |
| Reward | Fully Funded (Stipend + Tuition) |
| Stipend | €25,000 per year |
| Duration | 4 Years |
| Application Deadline | February 6, 2026 (17:00 Irish Time) |
The University of Galway Hardiman PhD Scholarships 2026
The University of Galway proudly announces the opening of applications for the 2026 Hardiman PhD Scholarships. This prestigious program is a cornerstone of the university’s commitment to supporting high-achieving, curiosity-driven students who are passionate about expanding knowledge and delivering a meaningful societal impact.

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The Hardiman Scholarships foster an environment of interdisciplinary and engaged research, encouraging students to tackle global challenges and national priorities by leveraging the unique research strengths of the University of Galway. Successful candidates will become integral members of a vibrant, globally connected research community.
Benefits and Specific Awards of the Hardiman PhD Scholarships
The scholarship provides comprehensive financial support and professional development opportunities designed to ensure scholars can focus fully on their research and growth over the four-year term.
Tier 1: Hardiman Full Financial Support (€25,000 Annual Stipend)
- Annual Stipend: Scholars receive a generous, tax-free stipend of €25,000 per year for the full four-year duration of the PhD program.
- Full Tuition Coverage: All PhD tuition fees are fully covered by the scholarship for four years.
Tier 2: Academic and Research Environment
- Structured PhD: Support is provided for students undertaking a Structured PhD across a wide range of programs at the University of Galway, facilitating high-quality doctoral training.
- Interdisciplinary Focus: Scholars are encouraged to engage with the university’s research pillars, fostering creative energy and collaborative exploration across traditional academic boundaries.
Tier 3: Career and Community Development
- International Network: Scholars join a global network of researchers, providing opportunities for collaboration and engagement with cutting-edge ideas.
- High-Impact Contribution: The program offers a platform for growth, discovery, and meaningful contribution to the advancement of knowledge, ensuring graduates have the expertise and experience to make a lasting difference in their fields.
Eligibility Requirements for Hardiman PhD Scholarships 2026
Applicants must meet core academic and commencement criteria to be eligible for the Hardiman PhD Scholarship:
- Program Start Date: Applicants must be eligible to commence their PhD program at the University of Galway on September 1, 2026.
- Academic Excellence: Must demonstrate exceptional academic excellence and research potential in their field.
- Motivation and Creativity: Must possess the motivation, drive, and creativity necessary to contribute meaningfully to their proposed field of study.
- Engagement: Must be prepared to engage fully with the university’s research community and participate in interdisciplinary initiatives.
How to Apply for Hardiman PhD Scholarships 2026 (Step by Step)
The application process requires careful coordination between the applicant, the proposed supervisor, and academic referees, all adhering to the strict submission deadline.
- Find and Nominate a Supervisor: Identify and secure a commitment from a proposed PhD supervisor at the University of Galway.
- Supervisor Form Submission: The nominated supervisor must complete and submit a Supervisor Form through the University of Galway portal by the deadline.
- Complete Your Application: Carefully read the Applicant’s Guide and complete the main application form online in English or Irish only.
- Academic References Submission: Ensure two separate academic referees submit their Reference Forms by the deadline, attesting to the applicant’s suitability and potential for postgraduate research.
Application Deadline: February 6, 2026, 17:00 Irish Time
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the annual stipend amount for the Hardiman PhD Scholarship?
The scholarship provides a generous annual stipend of €25,000 for the duration of the program.
2. How many years does the Hardiman PhD Scholarship cover?
The scholarship is fully funded for the entire four-year period of the Structured PhD program.
3. What is the final application deadline for the 2026 cycle?
The application submission deadline is February 6, 2026, at 17:00 Irish Time. This deadline applies to the main application, the Supervisor Form, and the Academic References.
4. Is the scholarship open to international students, or is it restricted to Irish citizens?
The Hardiman PhD Scholarships are generally open to applicants from all countries (global eligibility) who meet the academic and eligibility criteria for PhD commencement at the University of Galway.
5. What are the key criteria used to assess applications?
Applications are evaluated based on: Academic excellence and research potential, creativity and motivation, suitability of the proposed PhD topic, and the applicant’s fit with the university’s interdisciplinary research culture.
6. Is it mandatory to nominate a supervisor before applying?
Yes, applicants must nominate a PhD supervisor, and that proposed supervisor is required to submit a separate Supervisor Form by the application deadline.
7. What academic qualifications are required to be eligible?
Applicants must be eligible to commence a PhD program at the University of Galway on September 1, 2026, which typically requires a relevant Master’s degree or equivalent academic excellence.
8. Are there any restrictions on the field of study for this scholarship?
No, the scholarship supports students pursuing a Structured PhD across a wide range of programs at the University of Galway, emphasizing curiosity-driven and interdisciplinary research.
9. How many academic references are required for the application?
Applicants must provide two academic references to indicate their suitability and potential for postgraduate research.
10. Can applications be submitted in a language other than English?
Applications may be submitted in English or Irish only. All other application materials, including references, must adhere to this language requirement.












