Maynooth University - Rugby Scholarships

Benefit

You will be taking part in an elite rugby programme at Maynooth University in Ireland, run in partnership with Barnhall RFC as ‘MU Barnhall RFC’. The main benefit is not financial, but rather a comprehensive support package for talented players. This may include a financial bursary (a grant towards sporting and academic costs such as kit and travel expenses). The exact amount depends on your funding tier. The scholarship is valid for the duration of your studies and is renewed annually. You will also receive:

• Up to 60 CAO points off: the entry requirements for your degree programme, if applicable. CAO points are the Irish system used to assess Leaving Certificate results for the allocation of university places.
• Priority will be given when allocating on-campus accommodation in the first year of study. The usual fees will still apply.
• Medical cover and physiotherapy.
• Professional coaching, strength and fitness training, three supervised training sessions a week at the gym, video analysis and free gym membership.
• Workshops on sports psychology, nutrition and time management.
• Academic and career support.

Eligibility

• Study level: You are studying at Maynooth University, either on an undergraduate or postgraduate programme. Applications for postgraduate programmes are assessed on a case-by-case basis.
• Sporting level: You already compete, or could compete, at a very high level: international, national, inter-provincial or inter-county.
• Gender: Both men and women are welcome to apply.
• Entry grades: If you are applying with the Leaving Certificate, you must still meet the minimum entry requirements for your degree programme. The 60-point reduction may help you to achieve these. QQI applicants must have successfully completed 8 modules and obtained 5 ‘Distinctions’ in a relevant qualification.
• Field of study: Any degree programme. For the Primary School Teacher Training programme (MH001/MH002), the bonus points apply only to a limited number of places.
• Nationality: All nationalities can apply.
• Commitment: You sign for and play with MU Barnhall RFC and keep up both your training and your grades.

How to apply

You must complete the online application form, which is available every November. First-year students applying via the CAO must submit their application by 1 April. Students in higher semesters and postgraduate students can apply from the start of the semester in September. Following a check of your references, you will take part in a selection day and a short interview with the Admissions Office and the Rugby Development Manager.

You can find more scholarships in our guide Scholarships in Ireland.