DCU supports the holistic development of talented athletes and recognises their increasing need to successfully balance both academic and sporting commitments. DCU facilitates this vision through the Sports Scholarship Programme.  The Sport Scholarship programme is an athlete led development programme whereby a network of support services and expertise are tailored to the individual needs of the athlete. The programme grades support depending on the athlete’s achievement, potential and need, with the objective of remaining flexible to support the diverse needs of the athlete. 

Sport Scholarships were first introduced in DCU in 1996 in the form of GAA sport scholarships. In recent years the programme has expanded greatly and students have been awarded sport scholarships in Athletics, Basketball, Boxing, Camogie, Canoe, Gaelic Football, Golf, Handball, Hockey, Hurling, Rugby, Rowing, Sailing, Soccer and Tennis. DCU is also committed to the development of sporting excellence amongst students with a disability. 

The DCU Sports Scholarship programme offers a wide range of support services for talented athletes as part of a balanced approach to training, performance and academic excellence. The programme is athlete led and grades support depending on the athlete’s achievement, potential and need, with the objective of remaining flexible to support the diverse needs of athletes.

Sport Scholarships are offered to eligible students that have met the DCU admission requirements through the CAO system and are enrolled on a programme of academic study at DCU. The offer of a Sport Scholarship award does not include a reduction in points or the offer of an academic place at DCU. Performance athletes that wish to be considered a reduction in entry criteria will need to apply for the CAO Points Concession Programme.