Mid-Atlantic Region Scholarship Program

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The Mid-Atlantic Region is proud to launch the inaugural MAR Scholarship Program, created to recognize dancers in our region who demonstrate strong dedication, character and heart while balancing Irish dance and academics.

 

Download MAR Scholarship Guidelines

Download Teacher Verification Form

Apply Now

 

Eligibility: The program will award multiple scholarships, with the number of recipients determined based on available funding. Up to $10,000 in scholarships will be distributed to Oireachtas-level dancers (including solo, traditional set, and céilí competitors). The applicant must be one of the following as of January 1, 2026:

1. Young Scholar (Ages 10-13)

2. High School Junior (Class of 2027)

3. High School Senior (Class of 2026) who will be attending an undergraduate institution in Fall 2026

4. Current College Student enrolled in an undergraduate institution and continuing in the 2026–2027 academic year

 

Full eligibility details and essay instructions are available in the Scholarship Guidelines PDF above.

 

The deadline to submit your application is Monday, August 17, 2026.

 

Recipients will be notified in early November and recognized at the Mid-Atlantic Region Oireachtas 2026 in Philadelphia.

 

Questions? Please contact mar.scholarship.program@gmail.com.

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Reminder: Please apply under the scholarship category based on your grade level as of January 1, 2026, not the grade level you are entering in the fall.

 

FAQs

Question: My dancer just completed their Sophomore year of High School and is entering their Junior year in September (Class of 2028). Are they eligible?
Answer: No, eligibility is based on a dancer's grade level as of January 1, 2026. Dancers entering their Junior year this fall (Class of 2028) are not eligible for this year's scholarship.

Question: My dancer just graduated High School (Class of 2026) and will be attending College this fall. Which category should they apply under?
Answer: Since they were a High School Senior as of January 1, 2026, please apply under the High School category and select from the High School essay topics.

Question: My dancer has previously competed in trad set and ceili at the Oireachtas but not a solo. Are they eligible?
Answer: Yes, the scholarship is open to dancers who have previously competed at an Oireachtas in any competition, not just solo dancers, provided they plan to attend the 2026 MARO and meet all other scholarship requirements.