Are you a recent or soon-to-be graduate of an Irish Higher Education Institution, looking to pursue a Master’s degree in business at one of Europe’s top business schools? The UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School MSc Merit Based Scholarships 2025 offers exceptional non-UCD students a unique opportunity to receive a tuition fee contribution based on academic excellence and leadership potential.
Whether you are passionate about accounting, management, finance, or marketing, this scholarship is designed to support high-achieving students with a proven academic track record. In this guide, we break down all the essential details you need to apply and succeed.
Quick Summary: MSc Merit Based Scholarships 2025
| Feature | Details |
| Scholarship Name | MSc Merit Based Scholarships for Non-UCD Students / Graduates |
| Institution | UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School |
| Scholarship Value | €2,000 contribution towards tuition fees |
| Eligibility | Graduates of Irish Higher Education Institutions (non-UCD) |
| Minimum Degree Requirement | Mid 2.1 Honours (65%) or above in Level 8 Bachelor’s degree |
| Eligible Programmes | Full-time MSc Taught Programmes (including Master of Accounting) |
| Ineligible Programmes | MSc in Biotechnology and Business, Biotherapeutics and Business, and International Law and Business |
| Application Deadline | 1 August 2025 |
| Application Method | No separate form; awarded through programme application |
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the MSc Merit Based Scholarships 2025, applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Be a graduate or expected graduate (by summer 2025) of an Irish Higher Education Institution, excluding UCD.
- Hold or be on track to achieve a mid Hons 2.1 (65%) or higher in a Level 8 Honours Bachelor’s degree.
- Be applying for a full-time taught MSc programme at UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School.
- Not have previously undertaken or commenced a Master’s programme.
- International students educated in Ireland are also welcome to apply, but must contact the school prior to submission.
Programmes run jointly with UCD Belfield (e.g., MSc in Biotechnology and Business) are not eligible for this scholarship.
Scholarship Benefits
- A €2,000 tuition fee reduction toward the selected Master’s programme.
- The opportunity to serve as an ambassador for UCD Smurfit during studies and after graduation.
- Recognition for academic excellence and leadership potential.
Application Requirements
- Programme Application: Candidates must first apply for a full-time MSc programme.
- Scholarship Form: No separate scholarship application is needed.
- Two Short Essay Questions: Included as part of the application process.
- Degree Results: Academic performance (65% or higher) is a core determinant.
- Citizenship: Open to non-Irish citizens who graduated in Ireland.
How to Apply for MSc Merit Based Scholarships for Non-UCD Students / Graduates 2025
- Choose a Programme: Select a full-time MSc or Master of Accounting programme at UCD Michael Smurfit.
- Apply Online: Complete the application via the official UCD Smurfit application portal.
- Complete the Essays: During the application process, submit responses to the two required short essays.
- Submit Before Deadline: Applications must be submitted by 1 August 2025.
Scholarships will be awarded in the second half of August 2025. Late applications will not be accepted.
For more information about this scholarship, visit official website here.
Terms and Conditions
- Scholarships are non-deferrable.
- Recipients must accept the offer to retain the scholarship.
- Awardees who withdraw from the programme will lose the scholarship and will not be eligible again.
- Only one scholarship per student is allowed.
- Each MSc programme can award up to two scholarships.
FAQs
Is there a separate scholarship application form?
No. There is no separate form. Your programme application and responses to the scholarship essays will be used for evaluation.
Can international students apply for the scholarship?
Yes — but only if they completed their undergraduate education at an Irish Higher Education Institution. You must contact the school before applying.
What happens if I don’t meet the 65% minimum requirement?
Unfortunately, students with a lower academic performance are not eligible for the scholarship. Aim to meet or exceed the threshold before applying.
Can I defer the scholarship to the next academic year?
No. Scholarships cannot be deferred. You must commence your studies in the 2025–2026 academic year.
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