Dear Parents/Guardians,

 

We are pleased to inform you about the DEIS Gaeltacht Scholarship Scheme for 2026. Below are the key details:

 

1. Eligibility of Schools: Our school, Our Lady of Mercy Secondary School is a designated DEIS post-primary school and therefore we are eligible to apply for these scholarships.

 

2. Student Eligibility: Students who are studying Irish as a school subject are eligible to apply.

 

3. Scholarship Allocation: Our school has been allocated 4 scholarships. If more than 4 students are interested in receiving the scholarship the students names will be chosen randomly to allocate the scholarships.  

 

4. Scholarship Application Process: Scholarship applications will be managed directly by the school. Students must have a place in a Gaeltacht before applying for the scholarship.  

 

5. Scholarship Value: a. 3-week course – Up to a maximum value of €950 or 85% of the course fee, whichever is less. b. 2-week course – Up to a maximum value of €820 or 85% of the course fee, whichever is less. c. Courses of less than 2 weeks are not eligible.

 

6. Approved Gaeltacht Summer Colleges: All Gaeltacht locations around Ireland are eligible for the scholarship. If unsure, contact the college to verify if they are suitable for Deis Gaeltacht Scholarships..  

 

7. Reservation of Summer College Places: The parents/ guardian/students are responsible for ensuring a place in a recognised Gaeltacht Place.

 

8. Proof of Placement: Only valid applications with evidence of the student securing a place in a recognised Gaeltacht summer college and proof of deposit payment  will be considered. A receipt, invoice, or online confirmation will be accepted as proof.

 

9. Payment of Deposits: Any deposits for summer college placement are the responsibility of the student or parent/guardian. (Note: If not selected for a scholarship, all outstanding fees due to the college will be the responsibility of the student or parent/guardian.)  

 

Please contact us if you have any questions or need assistance with the process.

 

Kind regards,  

The Irish Department Our Lady of Mercy Secondary School, Waterford.