Irish scholarships support the educational endeavors of Irish-American students and the study of Irish culture and arts. Scholarships for student of Irish descent can usually be applied to a degree in any subject. Some Irish scholarships support study abroad opportunities in Ireland, but do not require applicants to be of Irish descent. Other scholarship opportunities are available to students who plan to attend college in Ireland or are planning to study Irish culture, music, and arts.
Eligibility Requirements
Eligibility requirements for Irish scholarships can vary based on the scholarship's objective. Scholarships honor Irish-Americans and their descendants often require the applicant to be of Irish descent or be related to a member of an Irish culture organization. Some Irish scholarships seek to encourage study abroad in Ireland. These types of scholarships can be competitive and are usually merit-based, but may not require the applicant to be Irish. Other eligibility requirements may include:
- Are a high school graduate or graduating senior
- Are of Irish descent
- Are a legal U.S. resident
- Meet specific GPA, SAT, GRE, or other merit requirements
- Enrolled in an accredited program
- Planning to study a specific subject or field
- A member of or related to a member of an Irish heritage organization
Requirements for some Irish scholarships may vary, as the above list of potential requirements is not all-inclusive. However, many Irish scholarships value academic achievement and community involvement. The list of scholarships below includes some of the different types of Irish scholarships available:
Types of Irish Scholarships
- AOH & LAOH Irish Way Scholarship: The Ancient Order of Hibernians awards $500 scholarships to children or grandchildren of two of its members as part of a summer study abroad program.
- AOH National Board Junior Year Study Abroad Scholarship: The National Board of the Ancient Order of Hibernians also has two $1000 scholarships available to children of its members who have been accepted to an accredited college or university in Ireland.
- Celtic Sons And Daughters Scholarship Program: The Central Connecticut Celtic Cultural Committee awards one $1500 merit scholarship to students of Irish descent who are also Connecticut residents.
- George J. Mitchell Scholarship: This competitive, national scholarship sponsored by the US-Ireland Alliance supports one year of post-graduate study at a college or university located in Ireland or Northern Ireland.
- Michael J. Doyle Scholarship: Children and grandchildren of members of The Irish Society can apply for the Annual Michael J. Doyle Scholarship. The winner receives $1000 per year for up to four years enrolled in an undergraduate program.