Education Programme
We believe education is an investment in the future of individuals and the country. Given the opportunity, people excel in education, and society prospers when they do. Education does more than play a vital role in personal development; it boosts self-esteem and promotes integration.
Our Education Support is for adults in the international protection process and refugees interested in Further Education and Higher Education.
If you need information on Primary or Secondary school (children) please visit www.schooldays.ie or www.education.ie.
How We Support Access to Education
We work to expand access to Further and Higher Education in four key ways:
- Government – advocating for policies that make education genuinely accessible to people seeking asylum
- Universities – collaborating with universities to develop Sanctuary Scholarships
- Information – providing guidance to potential students and hosting online information webinars
- Education Fund – offering financial support with fees and transport when state or institutional funding is unavailable
Our Education Fund:
- Opens for applications for two weeks in July for courses beginning in September
- Relies on annual donations from individuals and corporate donors
Find below information on access to education in Ireland
How to get started
Find out about the education structure and what qualifications you qualify for.
Education MAP
The map shows adult education guidance, colleges and universities across the country
University (Sanctuary Scholarships) Funding
Learn more about university (sanctuary scholarships) funding
Ukrainian Students in Ireland
Learn more about education opportunities for Ukrainians in Ireland
Contact Our Education Team
Have you read the information on this page and still have questions or need support with a specific issue? Complete the form below and a member of our Education team will be in touch.
You can also get in touch with the team by email at education@irishrefugeecouncil.ie
Support Our Education Fund
Our Education Fund, the mainstay of our Education Programme, allowing us to provide financial assistance to refugees pursuing Higher and Tertiary education.
Stories from our education work
We believe education is an investment in the future of individuals and the country. Given the opportunity, people excel in education, and society prospers when they do. Education does more than play a vital role in personal development; it boosts self-esteem and promotes integration.