Líofa Gaeltacht Bursary Scheme 2026 opens for applications with support for low-income Irish learners

The 2026 Líofa Gaeltacht Bursary Scheme is now open for applications, the Department for Communities has announced, offering financial support to eligible students and adult learners to attend Irish-language courses in Gaeltacht areas.

The scheme provides attendees with an opportunity to immerse themselves in an Irish speaking community, increase their knowledge and use of Irish through attending classes, and take part in a wide range of cultural activities including sport and music through the medium of Irish.

Eligibility criteria for 2026 bursary

The Gaeltacht Bursary Scheme is open to students whose parents are in receipt of a means-tested benefit, or adult learners in receipt of one of the qualifying benefits.

As demand for the bursary is very high, preference is given to those adults or students who have not previously received a bursary and who meet the criteria set out in the application form.

The average cost of a bursary — which includes accommodation and tuition — is £550.

How to apply for the Líofa Gaeltacht Bursary Scheme

Applications can be made online via the official portal:

Apply Here

Applicants can also contact Líofa directly on 028 9051 5114.

The scheme will close on 17 March 2026, and successful applicants will be notified by the end of April 2026.

Scheme background

The Líofa Gaeltacht Bursary Scheme was launched in 2012.

Since its introduction, more than 3,000 applications have been received and almost 1,100 bursaries awarded.

The programme supports individuals who may otherwise find the cost of a Gaeltacht course prohibitive, helping widen access to Irish-language immersion experiences across communities.