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Ireland For September 2026 (and January 2026) intakes — international applications accepted on a rolling basis; apply early for scholarship consideration

National College of Ireland International Merit Scholarship

National College of Ireland (NCI), based in Dublin's docklands tech and financial district, specialises in computing, data analytics, cybersecurity, fintech, and business — fields with strong graduate demand in Ireland. NCI offers merit-based scholarships to international students that reduce postgraduate tuition for applicants with a strong academic record. The college's practical, industry-aligned taught Master's (such as Data Analytics, Cybersecurity, Cloud Computing, and Fintech) make it a popular choice for Sri Lankan students aiming at Ireland's tech sector, and its city-centre location sits beside major employers. The exact reduction and which programmes carry merit awards vary by intake. For Sri Lankan applicants, a strong upper-second or first-class Bachelor's in a relevant field is the realistic baseline. Confirm the current merit-scholarship value, eligible programmes, and deadlines with NCI admissions before applying.

National College of Ireland (NCI)

University-funded

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Value

Partial Tuition Reduction (merit)

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Best Fit

Computing & Business Master's

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Basis

Academic Merit

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International Applicant

Open to international (non-EU/EEA) students applying to NCI. Sri Lankan citizens with recognised qualifications are eligible to apply for admission and the merit scholarship.

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Admission to a Taught Master's

You must be admitted to an eligible NCI taught Master's, typically in computing, data, or business. Some programmes have specific subject prerequisites — check the entry requirements.

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Academic Merit

The reduction is merit-based. A strong upper-second or first-class Bachelor's in a relevant discipline from a recognised Sri Lankan university improves both admission and the scholarship offered.

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English Proficiency

Typically IELTS 6.5 (no band below 5.5) or equivalent. Sri Lankan applicants with an English-medium Bachelor's may qualify for a waiver where NCI accepts it — confirm for your programme.

account_tree Application Process

Apply to an NCI Master's

Submit your application with transcripts, degree certificate, CV, statement of purpose, and English evidence. Apply early, as scholarship consideration favours earlier complete applications.

Merit assessment

NCI assesses your academic profile for admission and the merit-scholarship band. The reduction is normally confirmed in or alongside your offer.

Accept and pay the deposit

Accept your offer and pay the required deposit to secure your place and the scholarship reduction.

Apply for the Irish study visa

Apply for the Irish study visa with your offer letter, fees-paid confirmation, and proof of funds for living costs and remaining tuition.

Why National College of Ireland?

NCI sits in the heart of Dublin's docklands, beside the European headquarters of major tech and finance firms, with industry-aligned Master's in computing, data, and business. Strong graduate-employment outcomes and Ireland's post-study stay-back permit make it a pragmatic choice for Sri Lankan students targeting Ireland's tech economy.