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Applications

"That year was one of the best years of my life. From the beginning I received training and mentorship in so many facets of an operating stud farm on a level that can be rare in this industry. Gerry's immense generosity, his wonderful skill for pinhooking and an amazing experience that allowed me to prep an eventual Kentucky Derby winner..."
- Carol Kelly (Dromoland Farm 2014-2015)
Stud Hand, Rheinwood Pastoral (Australia)

The foundation has partnered with the Irish National Stud to annually award a placement on the world renowned National Stud educational course. You are eligible if you have multiple years work experience on a KY horse farm, or if you have completed the Kentucky Equine Management Internship (KEMI) program.

Irish National Stud Scholarship

Eligibility Requirements:

  • Currently working on a Kentucky horse farm with multiple years of experience, OR currently enrolled as a 2026 KEMI spring intern, or must have completed the program in fall of last year
  • Resident of the US
  • Bachelor's degree in equine science preferred, but not required
  • Application and information due July 1, 2026 

This Scholarship Provides:

  • Airfare for student to travel to Ireland, and home, at completion of program. Ticket must be economy/coach class, maximum amount $1500. Must provide proof of payment for reimbursement
  • Fully paid tuition (approx. $9,000) for the Irish National Stud in Kildare, Ireland, including room and board
  • Travel/Medical insurance policy while in Ireland. Minimum coverage $25,000. Maximum premium $500. Must provide proof of payment for reimbursement
Apply Today

We offer placements on a prominent KY horse farm for Gerry Dilger Equine Scholarship Foundation award winners.

Kentucky Thoroughbred Farm Experience Scholarship

Eligibility Requirements:

  • Recent graduate of: 
    • University College Dublin
    • University of Limerick
    • Irish National Stud
    • CAFRE Enniskillen
    • Kildalton Agriculture College
    • Trinity College
    • University of Galway
    • Cork College FET Equine Studies and Business
    • Maynooth University
    • TUS Athlone
    with a Bachelor's degree in equine science, or other related equine degree or program
  • OR, five years' experience working on a horse farm outside the US
  • Able to commit to one year period July 2026 through June 2027
  • Application and information due April 1, 2026

This Scholarship Provides:

  • Airfare for student to travel to the United States, and home at completion of program. Ticket must be economy/coach class, maximum amount $1500. Must provide proof of payment for reimbursement
  • Payment for the cost of the required J1 student work visa including the required insurance
  • An opportunity to work on a prominent Lexington, Kentucky thoroughbred
    farm with an hourly wage and housing provided
  • Paid time off for Christmas holiday
Apply Today

We will award one scholarship to attend the world-renowned breeding course at the beautiful Irish National Stud. This will be for an Irish Citizen who is currently residing in Ireland.

Irish National Stud Scholarship for an Irish Citizen

Eligibility Requirements:

  • Currently working in the equine industry
  • Resident of Ireland
  • Must apply first directly to the Irish National Stud by October 1, 2026. See our homepage for a link to the application. If selected, they will provide you with information about eligibility and how to apply for our scholarship.

This Scholarship Provides:

  • Fully paid tuition (approx. €5,500) for the Irish National Stud Breeding Program in Kildare, Ireland, including room and board
Apply Today