60 students from across Northern Ireland have taken part in a graduation ceremony at Stormont Parliament Buildings in Belfast to celebrate completing this year’s Study USA programme.
Managed by the British Council, on behalf of the Department for the Economy, Study USA is an immersive scholarship designed to support academic development and intercultural understanding while equipping students with the personal and professional skills needed to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.
Students from Queen’s University Belfast, Ulster University, St. Mary’s University College Belfast, Belfast Metropolitan College, South Eastern Regional College and Southern Regional College were recognised for their achievements in subjects such as Entrepreneurship, Leadership, Communications, Marketing, Human Resources and Languages, alongside their home discipline.
This year Cara McMahon, a Primary-teaching student attending St Mary’s University College, Belfast, was named Student of the Year, recognising exceptional academic achievement during the scholarship. On receiving her award, Cara spoke about how Study USA has inspired her future career focus:
"My year at Manhattan University through the Study USA programme challenged me academically, introduced me to new experiences and helped shape the direction of my future. I came to America knowing I wanted to become a teacher, but I am returning to the North of Ireland with a clearer understanding of the impact I want to make and a passion for advocating for children. Talent exists everywhere, but opportunity doesn’t, and I hope to spend my career helping to close that gap."
Fellow student Dualtach Mag Fhionnbhairr of Queen’s University Belfast, who studied at the University of St. Thomas in Texas, was recognised with a Spirit of the Year award. This is presented to the student considered to have most embraced the ethos of the programme, made a positive contribution to campus life and demonstrated a commitment to making the most of the experience. Dualtach praised Study USA for increasing his confidence and helping develop his leadership skills:
‘When I arrived in Houston, I never imagined how much I would grow as a leader. Throughout my year, I embraced every opportunity to represent not only Study USA, but the strong transatlantic connection between Ireland and the United States. Through Houston’s Irish community, Houston Gaels, sharing Irish culture and language, and engaging with leaders and students, I was able to create lasting connections across both sides of the Atlantic. I wanted to show how our shared values, culture and relationships can bring people together. Study USA gave me the confidence to become a stronger, more purposeful leader, and I hope to continue strengthening the Irish-American relationship long after my time in Houston.’
For more than three decades, the Study USA programme has enabled over 3,000 students from across Northern Ireland to enhance their career opportunities, expand professional networks and build lasting relationships.
For many, the impact of the programme extends beyond their year abroad, with graduates returning to Northern Ireland to apply the skills, insights and international connections gained in the US to build successful businesses and careers. Others have gone on to forge careers in the US, while maintaining strong connections with the programme and Northern Ireland.
Study USA was originally established in 1994 to support the Northern Ireland peace process, at a time when international opportunities for educational and economic exchange were limited. In the midst of continuing global uncertainty, Study USA continues to build steadfast links between Northern Ireland and the United States, as part of the British Council’s wider work supporting peace and prosperity between the UK and other countries.
Colm McGivern, Director, British Council Northern Ireland, congratulated the students, highlighting the lasting impact of the programme:
"Congratulations to all of this year's Study USA graduates. For over 30 years, Study USA has been a wonderfully unique and successful scholarship programme and we’re extremely proud of the thousands of young people from Northern Ireland whose lives, studies and careers have been enriched by this life-changing opportunity.
“Each year, we see participants develop not only the skills and confidence that enhance their employability, but also the intercultural awareness and global outlook that are essential in today's interconnected world. These experiences help prepare students to thrive in international environments and contribute positively to their communities, in work and wider society.
“The United States is an immensely important partner for Northern Ireland, with deep and enduring connections across education, business, culture and civic life. Study USA is an important part of that story, creating meaningful transatlantic connections and helping young people build networks that can benefit them throughout their careers.
“Study USA students are outstanding ambassadors for Northern Ireland. During their time in the United States, they bring fresh perspectives, talent and ambition to the campuses and communities they join, while also showcasing the very best of Northern Ireland. In return, they come home with new insights, experiences and friendships that strengthen our society and enrich our economy.
“It is exciting to see where the 2026 scholars are headed next, and I wish them every success as they join the growing global network of Study USA alumni. At a time when international collaboration and mutual understanding are more important than ever, this programme continues to strengthen the relationship between Northern Ireland and the United States and create opportunities for future generations."
Department for Economy Permanent Secretary, Ian Snowden, attended the ceremony and said of the programme:
“For more than 30 years, Study USA has been creating opportunities for talented students to broaden their horizons, gain international experience and develop the skills needed to succeed in an increasingly connected world.
“The Department for the Economy remains committed to Study USA because we see the difference it makes. It develops highly skilled, globally-minded graduates, strengthens the long-standing relationship between us and the United States, and helps ensure that talented young people from all backgrounds can access life-changing opportunities. Congratulations to the Study USA Class of 2026.”
Applications for Study USA for 2027-28 are now open to eligible full-time undergraduate students studying at Northern Ireland universities and Further Education colleges.
Students wishing to find out more about the programme and eligibility criteria can visit: https://nireland.britishcouncil.org/opportunities/study-usa