University College Dublin - The Ad Astra academic scholarships

What the Ad Astra academic scholarship gives you

You will receive a 3,000 EUR bursary per year for the entire duration of your Bachelor’s degree at University College Dublin (UCD), provided you meet the annual renewal criteria. In addition to the money, you will receive:

• A guaranteed place in on-campus student accommodation (you pay the rent yourself).
• A dedicated academic mentor – an experienced person who will support you throughout your studies.
• Workshops on leadership, emotional intelligence and careers, run in collaboration with academics, graduates and guest speakers.
• An optional module at level 2 on the topic of professional and personal development.
• Access to the ‘Scholars’ Room’ in the Student Centre, as well as team-building and networking events.

The award is run by UCD's Ad Astra Academy for students with strong results and leadership potential.

Who can apply

• Level: You are either just starting a Bachelor’s degree or are already studying for one. You must not already hold a degree from any higher education institution.
• Field of study: Open to all subjects.
• Your school results (new students): You have sat your school-leaving examinations in Ireland and passed them at the first attempt. You need either: 6 x H1 in the Irish Leaving Certificate, 3 x an A* grade in the GCE A-Level, or an equivalent mark in the International Baccalaureate or another EU school-leaving qualification taken in Ireland. The UCD Admissions Office will confirm whether your results are recognised.
• Current UCD students (Stage 2): Your programme office is putting you forward. You must have a grade point average of at least 3.68, have earned 60 graded ECTS credits, and meet the progression requirements for your degree programme.
• Nationality: All nationalities can apply.
• No deferral: You must accept the scholarship in the year in which it is offered.

How to apply

New students apply online through the Ad Astra Academy. The window opens on 1 February and closes on 23 August at 23:59, with no exceptions. A selection panel scores your statement of achievement (60%) and personal statement (40%). If you are shortlisted, you get an email and must attend an interview in early September. Current UCD students cannot apply directly. The Academy contacts you after a nomination and invites you to apply.

How realistic are your chances?

Every year, UCD awards up to 15 scholarships to first-year students and up to 18 further scholarships to students in 2. The number of applicants is not published.

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