Kilkenny Student Nora McCarthy Wins Maynooth University Scholarship

Nora McCarthy, a former student from County Kilkenny, has been awarded the prestigious €1,000 Entrance Scholarship from Maynooth University in recognition of her outstanding performance in the Leaving Certificate. McCarthy, who graduated from Loreto Secondary School, is among nearly 50 students who began their studies at the university in September 2025.

The scholarship is granted to incoming first-year students who achieve 575 points or more in their Leaving Certificate exams. McCarthy is currently enrolled in the Bachelor of Arts degree program, designated as MH101, at Maynooth University.

Celebrating Academic Excellence and Sports Achievements

The award ceremony took place in early February 2025 and marked a significant expansion of Maynooth University’s annual tradition of celebrating its scholarship recipients. Alongside academic scholars, the event also recognized sports scholars, creating a more inclusive atmosphere for celebrating excellence in both academics and athletics.

Professor Ronan Farrell, Vice President Academic and Registrar, expressed pride in hosting the newly expanded Scholars Awards Night. He stated, “These scholarships represent more than financial support — they reflect our belief in the potential of young people and our commitment to helping them pursue their goals.” Each scholar received a bespoke piece of crystal in recognition of their achievements, while school representatives were presented with a commemorative plaque.

Guests, including family members and educators, enjoyed an evening filled with music and refreshments, further enhancing the celebratory spirit of the occasion.

A Commitment to Future Generations

The inaugural Scholarship Awards Night underscores Maynooth University’s dedication to investing in the next generation. In total, nearly one hundred scholarships were awarded during the ceremony, including the Music Entrance Scholarship for the top applicant to the MH103 Bachelor of Music degree, and the W.A. Barrett Scholarship in Engineering, which provides €3,000 to eligible first-year students in accredited engineering programs.

The university also recognized sports scholars from various disciplines, including GAA (Camogie, Hurling, Ladies Football, Men’s Football), Golf, Rugby, Snooker, and Soccer.

For those interested in learning more about the range of undergraduate scholarships available at Maynooth University, details can be found at mu.ie/scholarships. Additionally, prospective students can attend the upcoming Open Days scheduled for April 25 and June 27, 2026, from 10:00 to 14:00. More information is available at www.mu.ie/opendays.

Through initiatives like these, Maynooth University continues to create opportunities that empower students to excel in their academic and sporting endeavors.