Research Student Fees and Stipends
In this section:
Registration Grace Period (2nd March to 31st July)
Students who commence their research from 2nd March onwards register as normal but are not liable for research fees until the next academic year.
The registration grace period applies to new students who have completed their registration during the period 2nd March to 31st July only (so have become fully registered research students). Those who have perhaps commenced the registration process but have not completed their registration as a research student by 31st July, will not be able to register for the current academic year and will instead have their registration finalised when registration for new students opens in the following academic year.
Students who do register between 2nd March and 31st July must also register again (as Year 1) when registration opens for the new academic year although an online PGR2 will not be required to facilitate this registration.
Card Fee Scheme 2026-27
The Card Fee scheme facilitates full-time and part-time research students' progression through the closing stages of their research degree by enabling them, when qualifying conditions are met, to avail of a reduced fee (EUR150) instead of the usual fee associated with their year of study.
In 2026-27 the Card Fee scheme applies only beyond specific registration periods:
-
- > 4 years full-time PhD or > 2 years full-time Masters, or
- > 5 year part-time PhD or > 3 years part-time Masters
- > 4 years Professional Doctorate/Doctorate Elite Perf (Sport)
The scheme is administered by the Graduate Studies Office in cooperation Registry/Fees.
Applicants must be in good standing in respect of their 2025-26 fees.
How to apply
The application process has changed for 2026-27 and to apply, students must now submit a Qualtrics form ie. the 2026-27 Card Fee Statement (see below) by Friday 26th June 2026. The Qualtrics form is the only method of applying for the Card Fee.
Qualification for the Card Fee is confirmed upon submission to Registry of an e-thesis for examination by Friday 4th December 2026.
Payment of €150
The €150 for the Card Fee, where the student is to pay themselves, is to be paid by Thursday 30th July 2026 - see below document on 'How to Make a Pre Payment' for step-by-step instructions.
Card Fee Documents
To apply:
- 2026-27 Card Fee Statement (via Qualtrics)
Terms and Conditions:
Making a payment:
DCU fees for the 2026-27 academic year:
The 'Thesis Submission and Oral Examination' doctoral guide produced by the Graduate Studies Office to assist students approaching the closing stages of their research can be found here.
Useful Links