The KickStart Scholarship for students with a criminal justice history opened again in 2024-25 for a third pilot round. Applications for the KickStart Scholarship closed on 2 November 2024 at 5pm and applications are being reviewed. For advice on other supports available at Maynooth University, visit MAP Student Advisory or email [email protected].
     

    KickStart Scholarship

    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.

    Data provided in an application is used solely for the purposes of assessing eligibility for a KickStart Scholarship and is not used for any other purpose without consent. Any questions in relation to how personal data is used by Maynooth University may be addressed to 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)