Quick Answer: Irish students can access multiple scholarship opportunities at Staffordshire University, including the International Excellence Scholarship worth up to £3,000, EU Transition Scholarships, and merit-based awards. Applications typically open in January 2026 with deadlines in May-June for September intake.

Why Irish Students Choose Staffordshire University

Staffordshire University has become an increasingly popular destination for Irish students seeking quality higher education in England. Ranked within the top 100 universities in the UK for student satisfaction, this institution offers over 400 courses across multiple campuses in Stoke-on-Trent, Stafford, Shrewsbury, and London. The university's strong focus on employability, with 94% of graduates in employment or further study within six months, makes it particularly attractive to Irish students looking to enhance their career prospects.

The transition for Irish students has been supported through various initiatives since Brexit, with Staffordshire University maintaining its commitment to welcoming students from the Republic of Ireland through dedicated scholarship programmes and support services.

Available Staffordshire University Scholarships for Irish Students

International Excellence Scholarship

The flagship scholarship programme offers awards ranging from £1,500 to £3,000 per year for Irish students demonstrating academic excellence. This merit-based scholarship is available for undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, with criteria based on previous academic performance and personal statement quality.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Irish citizenship or permanent residency
• Minimum academic requirements: 350+ CAO points for undergraduates, 2:1 degree classification for postgraduates
• Acceptance letter for a full-time programme
• English language proficiency (IELTS 6.0+ or equivalent)

EU Transition Scholarship

Specifically designed for students from EU countries including Ireland, this scholarship provides £2,000 per year to help offset the increased tuition fees post-Brexit. The programme recognises the unique position of Irish students and aims to maintain educational links between Ireland and the UK.

Subject-Specific Awards

Staffordshire University offers targeted scholarships for specific disciplines:

• STEM Excellence Awards: Up to £2,500 for engineering, computing, and science students
• Business School Scholarships: £1,800 for business and management programmes
• Creative Arts Bursaries: £1,200 for students in art, design, and media courses
• Health Sciences Support: £2,200 for nursing, midwifery, and allied health programmes

Sports Scholarships

Irish students with sporting achievements can apply for sports scholarships worth up to £3,500, covering training facilities, coaching support, and financial assistance. The university has strong partnerships with local sports clubs and offers excellent facilities at the £30 million sports centre.

Application Process and Timeline 2026

Key Dates for Irish Students

• January 15, 2026: Scholarship applications open
• March 1, 2026: Early application deadline (recommended)
• May 15, 2026: Final deadline for September 2026 intake
• June 30, 2026: Scholarship decision notifications
• July 15, 2026: Acceptance deadline for scholarship offers

Step-by-Step Application Guide

1. Submit University Application: Apply through UCAS or directly to the university for your chosen programme
2. Complete Scholarship Form: Access the online scholarship portal using your student ID
3. Gather Documentation:
   • Academic transcripts (officially translated if necessary)
   • Personal statement (500-750 words)
   • Two academic references
   • Proof of Irish citizenship/residency
   • English language test results
4. Submit Portfolio/Audition: Required for creative arts and performance-based programmes
5. Attend Interview: Selected candidates may be invited for virtual or in-person interviews

Tips for Strong Applications

Academic Excellence: Highlight your Leaving Certificate results, particularly in subjects relevant to your chosen course. Irish students should emphasise any Higher Level subjects with H2 grades or above.

Personal Statement: Connect your Irish background to your academic goals, explaining how studying at Staffordshire University will benefit your career aspirations. Mention any community involvement, work experience, or extracurricular activities that demonstrate your commitment and potential.

References: Choose referees who can speak to both your academic ability and personal character. Irish secondary school teachers or employers who know your work ethic make excellent referees.

Tuition Fees and Living Costs for Irish Students 2026

Undergraduate Programmes

• Annual Tuition: £14,500-£16,800 (varies by programme)
• With Scholarships: Effective cost £11,500-£15,300 after maximum awards

Postgraduate Programmes

• Annual Tuition: £15,200-£18,500
• MBA Programmes: £19,500-£22,000
• With Scholarships: Reduced by £1,500-£3,000 annually

Living Expenses in Staffordshire

Irish students typically spend £8,000-£10,500 annually on living expenses, significantly lower than London or other major UK cities:

• Accommodation: £85-£140 per week (university halls)
• Food and Groceries: £40-£60 per week
• Transport: £25-£35 per week (including local buses)
• Personal Expenses: £30-£50 per week

Alternative Funding Options

Irish Government Support

Irish students may be eligible for SUSI grants for EU study, though eligibility criteria have changed post-Brexit. Contact SUSI directly to discuss your specific circumstances and potential support available for UK study.

External Scholarships

• Ireland-UK Educational Trust: Offers grants up to €2,000 for Irish students studying in the UK
• County Council Scholarships: Some Irish county councils provide educational grants
• Professional Body Awards: Industry-specific scholarships from Irish professional organisations

When exploring your options, you can also browse all universities to compare scholarship opportunities and find the best fit for your academic and financial needs.

Student Support Services for Irish Students

Staffordshire University provides comprehensive support specifically designed for international students, including those from Ireland:

Pre-Arrival Support

• Dedicated Irish student liaison officer
• Pre-departure briefings (virtual and in-person in Dublin)
• Airport pickup services from Manchester and Birmingham airports
• Accommodation guarantee for first-year international students

On-Campus Support

• International student society with active Irish student community
• Academic writing support and study skills workshops
• Career guidance with focus on UK and Irish job markets
• Mental health and wellbeing services
• Financial advice and emergency funding support

Success Stories: Irish Students at Staffordshire

Recent Irish graduates have secured positions with major employers including Accenture, Microsoft, and the NHS, with many returning to Ireland to work for companies like Google Dublin, Pfizer, and Bank of Ireland. The university's strong industry connections and practical focus help Irish students develop skills valued by employers on both sides of the Irish Sea.

Conclusion

Staffordshire University scholarships provide excellent opportunities for Irish students to access quality UK higher education at reduced costs. With multiple funding streams available and comprehensive support services, Irish students can focus on their academic success while building valuable international experience. Start your application early to maximise your chances of securing funding for the 2026 academic year.

Key Statistics

📊 94% of Staffordshire University graduates are in employment or further study within six months of graduation

💰 Irish students can save up to £3,000 annually through International Excellence Scholarships

🎓 Over 400 courses available across 4 campuses including London, Stoke-on-Trent, and Stafford

📈 Living costs in Staffordshire are 30-40% lower than London, averaging £8,000-£10,500 per year

🏆 Staffordshire University ranks in the top 100 UK universities for student satisfaction

💼 £30 million invested in new sports and academic facilities since 2024

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I apply for Staffordshire University scholarships as an Irish student?

Irish students must first apply for admission to Staffordshire University through UCAS or direct application, then complete the separate online scholarship application form. You'll need academic transcripts, personal statement, two references, proof of Irish citizenship, and English language test results. Applications open January 15, 2026, with the final deadline of May 15, 2026, for September intake.

What is the International Excellence Scholarship and who is eligible?

The International Excellence Scholarship is Staffordshire University's flagship award offering £1,500-£3,000 per year based on academic merit. Irish students need minimum 350+ CAO points for undergraduate programmes or a 2:1 degree classification for postgraduate study. Recipients must maintain good academic standing and be enrolled full-time in eligible programmes.

How much does it cost for Irish students to study at Staffordshire University in 2026?

Undergraduate tuition ranges from £14,500-£16,800 annually, while postgraduate fees are £15,200-£18,500 per year. With maximum scholarships, effective costs reduce to £11,500-£15,300 for undergraduates. Living expenses average £8,000-£10,500 annually, making total costs significantly lower than studying in London or other major UK cities.

What support services are available specifically for Irish students?

Staffordshire University provides dedicated support including a specific Irish student liaison officer, pre-departure briefings in Dublin, guaranteed first-year accommodation, and airport pickup services. On-campus support includes an active Irish student community, academic writing workshops, career guidance focused on UK and Irish job markets, and financial advice services.

Can Irish students still receive SUSI funding for studying at Staffordshire University?

SUSI eligibility for UK study has changed post-Brexit, and Irish students should contact SUSI directly to discuss their specific circumstances. Alternative funding includes the Ireland-UK Educational Trust (grants up to €2,000), county council scholarships, and professional body awards. University scholarships remain the primary funding source for most Irish students.

What are the English language requirements for Irish students applying for scholarships?

Irish students typically need IELTS 6.0 overall (with 5.5 minimum in each component) or equivalent qualifications like TOEFL iBT 79+ or PTE Academic 59+. Students who completed secondary education in English in Ireland may be exempt from these requirements, but should confirm with the admissions team as policies can vary by programme.

Key Takeaways

✅ Multiple scholarship opportunities available worth £1,200-£3,500 annually for Irish students

✅ Early application by March 1, 2026, increases chances of securing funding

✅ Total study costs significantly lower than London universities, with living expenses around £8,000-£10,500

✅ Strong graduate employment rates at 94% within six months of completion

✅ Comprehensive support services specifically designed for Irish students

✅ Academic requirements achievable with 350+ CAO points for undergraduate scholarships