Most universities offer generous scholarships to incoming students.
In many cases entrance awards are offered to those achieving exceptional Leaving Cert results, while some universities award scholarships for outstanding achievement in areas such as creative and performing arts, Irish Language proficiency and active citizenship.
It is the sports scholarships however which attract the most attention.
With some of these closing for application as soon as March 9 (University of Limerick) now is a good time to reflect on your achievements, experiences, and future aspirations so that you will be able to showcase your unique qualities and demonstrate why you are an outstanding candidate for the scholarships available.
Also, give plenty of notice to your two referees. Most universities require two written references, either one sporting and one academic, or two sporting.
Unlike entrance awards which are automatically granted based on Leaving Cert results, all sports scholarships must be applied for.
The better known scholarships tend to be those given to team players for sports such as GAA – Football.
Hurling, Camogie, Soccer, Rugby, Hockey, Basketball, Volleyball, Badminton; and to individuals in Athletics, Cycling, Swimming, Sailing, Rowing, Golf, Tennis, Boxing and Martial Arts.
Not so well known are those such as Fencing, Archery, Rock-climbing and Weight-lifting. There is even snooker at Maynooth University.
Benefits of scholarships vary greatly from university to university. Some offer CAO points reduction.
Most offer financial bursaries. Access to on-campus accommodation can be increased and in some cases the cost reduced.
In general all sport scholars are offered top-level training facilities and coaching, as well as access to physio, medical support, sports science and psychology supports.
In addition support to help balance sporting and academic demands is put in place through academic flexibility, lifestyle mentoring and career guidance.
Online applications are made directly to each university. To apply for a scholarship you must first have applied to the CAO.
In the coming weeks applications will close for UL (March 9), MTU Kerry ( March 14), UCD (March 28), Maynooth (April 1), ATU (April 3), University of Galway (April 18), DCU, Mary I and TUD (May 1), DKIT (June 1), NCI (July 1).
SETU stays open for application until August 31; Marino and TUS until September; and IADT until November.
Applications for Trinity only open in April; UCC on May 1, closing on August 18; and MTU Cork opens for applications in mid-August.
To be considered for sports scholarship, applicants should demonstrate a high level of achievement and be of regional/county, national or international standard in their chosen sport.
Qualifying criteria varies greatly from one university to another. It is always advisable to consult directly with the universities you are applying to. All sports-scholarship departments welcome queries from prospective students.
The scholarship search tool on CareersPortal is an excellent resource. Also speak with your Guidance Counsellor in school as they are always a great source of support when making an application. Follow me for updates and reminders too.
Gold Star Careers offers one-to-one or small group career advice, in-person or online, to people of all ages, abilities and backgrounds. See www.goldsarcareers.ie for more information.
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