University College Dublin - Ad Astra Performing Arts Scholarship

What the Ad Astra Performing Arts Scholarship gives you

You receive 3,000 EUR towards your tuition fees or accommodation. You normally keep the award for the first four years of your studies, as long as you meet the renewal conditions each year. It comes from the UCD Ad Astra Academy at University College Dublin, which supports top performers in classical music and drama. Alongside the money, you get a place in the performing arts programme. This includes a personal academic mentor (an experienced staff member who guides your studies), seminars and workshops with professional performers, artistic development and training modules, use of the Ad Astra Performing Arts Studio and the Scholar's Room, a chance at on-campus accommodation, and regular opportunities to perform live.

Who can apply

• Your talent: You are a classically trained musician (singer or instrumentalist) or an actor in drama, with a clear record of developing your performance work. Dancers can also apply if they show dramatic experience. Singer-songwriters are not eligible for the music scholarship.
• Field of study: Any degree. You do not have to study a performance-related subject at UCD.
• Study level: You can be a future student, or already enrolled at UCD as an undergraduate or postgraduate.
• Nationality: All nationalities can apply.
• Admission: You must meet UCD's minimum entry requirements and be admitted to a UCD course. Especially talented applicants may get a points concession (a lower entry score).

How to apply

Apply online through the UCD application portal between 1 November 2025 and 31 January 2026, and include a 3-minute performance video. A panel of industry professionals and academics reviews the applications. Shortlisted candidates are invited to an audition and interview in April or May 2026. Undergraduates must also complete the CAO form by 1 February; postgraduates apply directly to UCD.

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