How to apply successfully for funding

Applying for funding is similar to applying for a place on a course and in some cases applications for academic places and for funding may overlap. So all the usual rules for completing applications apply. For the best chances, attend briefings at your college from funding bodies for insight into their guidelines, attend any sessions offered by your careers service, and have your application checked by an academic mentor if possible.

Student Universal Support Ireland (SUSI)

Student Universal Support Ireland (SUSI) is Ireland's national awarding authority for all higher and further education grants. To check your eligibility, check below on whatever link applies to you:

• Postgraduate student
• Student studying outside the state

You can visit SUSI's eligibility reckoner here. However,the eligibility reckoner provides an approximate indication of your possible eligibility for grant funding based on the information that you provide in response to the questions asked. Your use of the eligibility reckoner is not an application for a student grant and it is not an assessment by SUSI of your eligibility for a grant.Your actual eligibility for a student grant can only be determined on the basis of your formal application to SUSI made through the on-line application system and on the formal assessment of your application by SUSI.

Timing it right

If you want to study at a North American university this means early on in the previous year (usually at the same time that you apply for your university place). Competitive awards are announced at the start of the academic year, with deadlines from November onwards.

Meet the eligibility requirements

There is usually a lot of competition for funding. You should have good academic results and a good fit for the programme concerned. Funding bodies expect the best possible results overall throughout your academic course, normally at least a 2.1.

Complete the forms carefully

Read forms and directions carefully and make sure you give the information required. Give evidence of your track record in the subject and motivation and a sense of direction; also emphasise your interest in the department and university. Provide information about extra-curricular activities. This might include academic transcripts, academic references, a ‘statement of purpose’, or a statement from your bank manager or guarantor. Always meet the deadline

Where to find help

• Attend briefings at your college from funding bodies such as SUSI or the Irish Research Council. Follow the guidelines given there and on their websites.
• Attend any preparatory sessions offered by your careers service. Find your careers service via the dropdown menu on our careers advice page.
• Have your application checked by an academic mentor if possible.