A prestigious gateway for doctoral researchers to conduct their studies on the global stage is now open! The National University of Ireland (NUI) invites applications for its Travelling Doctoral Studentships 2026, a historic funding scheme established in 1910. This competitive award provides generous funding for PhD candidates to undertake essential research periods at leading universities worldwide. If you are a doctoral student within the NUI system with a vision for international research, this is your academic passport. Applications close on March 6, 2026.
NUI Travelling Doctoral Studentships 2026 – Key Details
Here’s a quick overview of this historic research mobility award:
- Award Sponsor: National University of Ireland (NUI)
- Award Name: Travelling Doctoral Studentships
- Study Level: Doctoral (PhD) Research
- Purpose: Funding for Substantial Research Periods Abroad
- Financial Value: Up to €33,000 per annum
- Target Group: Doctoral Students within the NUI Federal System
- Application Deadline: March 6, 2026
About the Fully Funded Travelling Studentship
The NUI Travelling Doctoral Studentship is one of Ireland’s oldest and most respected research awards. It is designed to enrich the Irish research ecosystem by enabling outstanding PhD candidates to access global expertise, facilities, and academic networks not available at home.
This is more than a grant; it’s a strategic investment in research excellence and international collaboration. The studentship allows you to remain registered at your home NUI institution while spending a significant portion of your PhD conducting research at a top university abroad, ultimately strengthening the quality and impact of your doctoral work.
Studentship Eligibility Criteria
This studentship has specific eligibility requirements. You can apply if you:
- Are a registered doctoral student within the National University of Ireland (NUI) federal system (e.g., at University College Dublin, University College Cork, NUI Galway, Maynooth University, or other recognised colleges).
- Are pursuing or have a clear plan for doctoral-level research.
- Intend to undertake a substantial period of research abroad at a reputable international university or research institute.
- Can demonstrate exceptional academic merit and strong research potential.
- Can clearly articulate how the overseas research period will enhance the quality of your PhD and your future contribution to your field and the NUI community.
Special Opportunity: One studentship in 2026 will be offered in partnership with the French Embassy in Ireland, specifically for research projects involving collaboration with France or French institutions.
Comprehensive Studentship Benefits & Funding
The studentship provides a substantial financial package to support your research abroad:
- Total Annual Funding: Up to €33,000 per year.
- Living Stipend: A €25,000 per annum stipend to cover living costs during your research period overseas.
- Tuition Fee Contribution: A grant of up to €8,000 towards tuition fees at the host institution abroad, if applicable.
- Prestigious Legacy: Awarded under a scheme with a century-long history of supporting Irish academic excellence.
- Global Network Access: Funding to build partnerships and conduct research at leading global universities.
How to Apply for the Travelling Studentship (Step-by-Step)
Applications must be submitted directly to NUI Awards. Follow these steps:
- Review Eligibility Thoroughly: Ensure you are a doctoral student within the NUI system and your research plan includes a substantial international component.
- Prepare Your Proposal: Develop a compelling research proposal that clearly outlines:
- The academic justification for conducting research abroad.
- The specific host institution and supervisor overseas.
- The intended duration and plan for the research period.
- How this experience will significantly enhance your PhD outcomes.
- Gather Supporting Documents: This typically includes academic transcripts, a detailed CV, a strong letter of support from your NUI supervisor, and evidence of contact or acceptance from the proposed host institution abroad.
- Submit Application: Complete and submit your application package to the NUI Awards office by the deadline.
🔥 Pro Tip: A successful application hinges on a well-justified, detailed research plan. Clearly demonstrate that the facilities, expertise, or resources at the proposed foreign host are essential and unavailable in Ireland, and explain how this mobility is critical to your project’s success.
Application Deadline
The final deadline to submit your complete application is:
📅 March 6, 2026.
Official Website & Application Portal
For the full guidelines, application forms, and detailed terms, visit the official NUI awards page.
👉 CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE OFFICIAL NUI TRAVELLING DOCTORAL STUDENTSHIPS PAGE
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: I am a PhD student at an Irish university, but not part of the NUI system. Can I apply?
A: No. This studentship is exclusively for doctoral candidates registered within the federal National University of Ireland (NUI) system. Check with your university’s research office to confirm your institution’s status.
Q2: How long is the “substantial research period” abroad?
A: The duration is not strictly defined but is typically understood to be a significant portion of the PhD (e.g., one year or more). Your proposal should justify the length of time needed for your specific research.
Q3: Does the studentship cover the entire duration of my PhD?
A: The studentship is awarded for the duration of the approved research period abroad, typically up to one year, but may be renewable subject to review. It is not usually a full four-year PhD scholarship.
Q4: What is the special French Embassy partnership studentship?
A: In 2026, one award will be designated for a research project that involves collaboration with France or a French institution. Applicants for this stream should highlight the French dimension of their work.
Q5: Is the €8,000 fee contribution enough to cover international tuition?
A: It is a contribution intended to offset costs. Tuition fees at host universities vary widely. You are responsible for ensuring your financial plan is viable, and you may need to secure additional fee waivers or funding from the host institution.
