Applications for the John J. Sweeney Scholarship 2026 at Ulster University is now open. This scholarship helps U.S. students who want to study a full time MSc or LLM program in Northern Ireland. The award is $20000 to help with tuition and living costs. It honors John J. Sweeney, the past President of the AFL-CIO who worked his whole life for workers rights and social justice.
John J. Sweeney Scholarship Summary
| Host University | Ulster University (Northern Ireland) |
| For | U.S. Students |
| Scholarship Value | $20,000 |
| Degree | Full-time MSc or LLM |
| Application Opens | 1 October 2025 |
| Deadline | 30 April 2026 |
About the Scholarship
The John J. Sweeney Scholarship was made to honor a strong leader who fought for fairness equality and workers well being. It continues his work by helping students who want to study subjects that support peace social justice and good government. The program is paid by the AFL-CIO, U.S labor groups and community groups that share Sweeneys values. Also See ENS International Selection Scholarship 2026 in France | €1,000 Monthly Stipend.
Scholarship Benefits
The scholarship is worth $20,000 USD.
- It covers tuition fees.
- Any extra money can be used for:
- Study materials or books
- Living expenses
- Travel or other academic costs
This helps students study comfortably in Northern Ireland without financial worries.
Eligible Programs
Students from the United States can apply for one of the following MSc or LLM programs:
- MSc Peace and Conflict Studies
- MSc Social Policy
- LLM Human Rights Law and Transitional Justice
- LLM Gender, Conflict and Human Rights
- LLM Access to Justice
- MSc Construction Management
- MSc Management and Corporate Governance
- MSc Manufacturing Management
- MSc Business Development and Innovation
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible, you must:
- Be a U.S. citizen.
- Have a full-time admission offer at Ulster University.
- Show a connection to the U.S. labor movement by meeting one of these:
- You are a current union member, or
- You have a family member (parent, sibling, aunt, uncle or grandparent) who is or was in a union, or
- You provide a reference letter from a recognized U.S. union sponsor.
Selection Criteria
The selection committee reviews all applications based on:
- Academic record
- Leadership qualities
- Connection to John J. Sweeney’s vision of justice and service
How to Apply For John J. Sweeney Scholarship 2026
Follow these steps:
- Apply for your chosen MSc or LLM program at Ulster University.
- Fill out the online scholarship form.
- Upload the following required documents:
- Degree certificate (GPA 2.8 or above)
- Personal statement (500–750 words)
- Two academic reference letters
- Copy of U.S. passport
- Union sponsor letter (if applicable)