Warning: This Article Will Make You Want to Study in Ireland

The cost of study abroad is, unsurprisingly, one of the biggest reasons why students don't, or think they can't, study abroad.

But what if I told you that, if you were down for studying abroad in Ireland, you might be able to throw costs and money out the window. You might, in fact, be able to win a scholarship that covers all of your expenses.

Well, this isn't an "if" or any other sort of hypothetical. It's happening. The best part is that it's happening in the form of 26 scholarships worth a total of $290,000. Each scholarship will cover the full tuition for your term abroad! Read on to find out more about how not just to apply to study in Ireland for free, but also learn more about your options for studying in Ireland.

What Does the Scholarship Include?

I already mentioned the big prize -- that 26 full-tuition scholarships will be awarded. 15 will be given to undergraduate students to help them cover the costs of a study abroad semester, and the rest will be awarded to 11 graduate students who plan to complete a one-year master's degree program in Ireland.

Additionally, Aer Lingus is going to award two winning students (one undergraduate and one graduate student) free round-trip airfare to help reduce your cost even more.

One of the coolest things, in my opinion, about this scholarship is that both undergraduate students and college graduates are able to apply since 11 of the 26 scholarships will be awarded to students pursuing a full master's degree program in Ireland.

If the next step in your career involves a master's degree, but you hadn't considered looking at international schools yet, this scholarship is absolutely one reason to consider changing your mind.

Scholarship aside, though, earning a master's degree in Ireland is a great choice for several reasons. First, tuition rates tend to be about the same or less than those in the United States. Second, most programs are only a year long, rather than two. Both of these factors often make doing a master's degree in Ireland more affordable and quicker.

Not to mention, studying abroad for a full degree is pretty different than doing so for just a semester. You'll have a more immersive experience and be able to build an international professional network -- which is especially helpful if you'd like to work abroad eventually.

Why Should I Apply? Why Study in Ireland?

If a scholarship covering the full cost of your tuition abroad wasn't enough, there are a couple of other reasons why you should apply for this scholarship or study in Ireland in general. It's a wonderful country, and not surprising that it's remained one of the most popular study abroad destinations for Americans for years.

For starters, Ireland is pretty accessible for Americans -- both logistically and culturally speaking. English is the main language (though you could absolutely learn Gaelic if you wanted), and most Americans are already somewhat familiar with Irish history and culture.

Secondly, it's one of the friendliest and safest nations in the world (which I'm sure will make your friends and family happy!)

Former study abroad students back this reputation up. For example, Holly, who studied in Ireland at the University College of Cork said in her review of her time abroad that "the Irish people are some of the kindest and talkative humans I've ever met, and they're more than willing to help out."

As for the quality of education, Ireland is home to several top-ranked universities and research programs, including some in the fields of nanoscience, immunology, and computer science. Ireland invests a huge amount in its education system, and as a student there, you'll have the opportunity to expand your knowledge at some of the finest schools.

Students come to Ireland for the academics, but then quickly fall in love with its culture and countryside. Imagine wandering the narrow, cobblestoned streets of Galway, following in the footsteps of Hemingway or Joyce. Or imagine looking out over the Cliffs of Moher into the vibrant green backdrop of Ireland without a care in the world. The historic castles, like from the pages of a fairytale book, make you want to keep an eye out for leprechauns and fairies.

My point: there are few places more beautiful than Ireland to spend a semester or year abroad in.

Where in Ireland Can You Study Abroad?

Ireland's a fairly small country, true, but you still have quite a few universities and study abroad programs to choose from when deciding where to study. Further, don't assume that Dublin's your only option -- Ireland is home to quite a number of other cities that are just waiting for you to fall in love with.

We created a super informative map and guide where you can see all of the programs offering scholarships this year. Check out the Ireland Scholarship Application Guidefor full details.