Maynooth University is delighted to announce that the KickStart Scholarship for students with a criminal justice history has opened again in 2024-25, following a successful 2-year pilot. 5 MU scholarship recipients have already benefitted from this support and progressed through their studies, experiencing the best that MU has to offer and giving back to the university through volunteering and involvement in Clubs and Societies. 

    Applications for the KickStart Scholarship can be made until 2 November 2024 at 5pm. Read the KickStart Scholarships Details to find out if you could be eligible and email [email protected] with any questions relating to completing an application.

    Maynooth University KickStart Scholarship Application Form 2024-25

     

    KickStart Scholarship Details

    The KickStart Scholarship Fund was established by the Irish Probation Service, and supported by the Irish Prison Service, to support persons with a criminal justice history who are experiencing socio-economic disadvantage to access Higher Education.

    There are two KickStart Scholarships available at MU:

    • One scholarship of €5000 per year of undergraduate study to a maximum of €20,000 over 4 years of a full-time course or 6 years of a part-time course.
    • One scholarship of €1250 for each year of undergraduate study to a maximum of €5000 over 4 years of a full-time course or 6 years of a part-time course.

    The KickStart Scholarship prioritises students who: (i) have a criminal conviction, (ii) are experiencing socio-economic disadvantage, and (iii) are commencing undergraduate third level education in September 2024.

    If you're a new entrant (first-time) undergraduate Maynooth University student and you believe you meet the KickStart Scholarship criteria, you may be eligible to apply. The KickStart team ([email protected]) is also available to you for advice on understanding the application process. To learn about other supports available at Maynooth University, visit MAP Student Advisory or email [email protected].

    Data provided in your application will be used solely for the purposes of assessing your eligibility for a KickStart Scholarship and will not be used for any other purpose without your consent. If you have any questions in relation to how your personal data is used by Maynooth University, contact the Maynooth University Data Protection Officer at [email protected].
     

    Quotes from ​Kickstart Scholarship Awardees:

     
    “I finally feel included with no judgements, boosting my self-esteem. I hope one day more people like me get this wonderful opportunity.” 
    "The Kickstart Scholarship improved the balance of my financial circumstances, giving me greater peace of mind to focus on my studies."
    "The Kickstart Scholarship prevented me from returning to homeless accommodation this year as it helped me pay my rent due to a delay with my Homeless Hap Payment. It allowed me the opportunity to focus mainly on my studies and my recovery, resulting in achieving very good grades for my first academic year. The funding has helped me immensely, and I am very grateful for it. Thank You" 
     
     

    Hear the experiences of people with a criminal justice history who accessed higher education
    (animated video, 3 minutes 44 seconds)