Application Deadline: July 26, 2026
Applications are now open for the Ireland Fellows Programme Africa 2027/2028, a fully funded master’s scholarship designed for early to mid-career professionals from eligible African countries. Funded by the Government of Ireland, the programme aims to equip emerging leaders with the knowledge, skills, and networks needed to contribute to sustainable development in their home countries.
The fellowship supports outstanding professionals who are committed to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) while strengthening long-term partnerships between Ireland and Africa.
If you are an ambitious professional looking to pursue a master’s degree abroad without financial burden, this opportunity is worth considering.
About the Ireland Fellows Programme Africa
The Ireland Fellows Programme Africa offers fully funded opportunities for talented professionals from eligible African countries to undertake a one-year master’s degree at an Irish higher education institution.
Beyond academic study, fellows benefit from leadership development, professional networking, intercultural exchange, and exposure to global best practices that can be applied in their home countries after graduation.
The programme focuses on building future leaders who will drive positive social, economic, and environmental change across Africa.
Fellowship Benefits
The Ireland Fellows Programme is fully funded and includes:
- Full payment of university tuition fees
- Visa application fees
- Medical and travel insurance
- Economy return flights between your home country and Ireland
- Irish residence permit fee
- A settling-in allowance upon arrival
- A completion and departure allowance at the end of the programme
- Monthly living allowance of €700 (subject to review)
- Fully paid student accommodation during Trimesters 1 and 2 (typically September to May)
- Accommodation allowance of €800–€1,000 per month during Trimester 3, depending on study location (subject to review)
Eligible Countries
Applicants must be nationals and residents of one of the following countries:
- Angola
- Burundi
- Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Djibouti
- Eritrea
- Eswatini
- Ethiopia
- Ghana
- Kenya
- Lesotho
- Liberia
- Malawi
- Mozambique
- Nigeria
- Rwanda
- Senegal
- Sierra Leone
- Somalia
- South Sudan
- Sudan
- Tanzania
- Uganda
- Zambia
- Zimbabwe
Eligible Fields of Study
Applicants may choose from a wide range of eligible master’s programmes, including:
- Agriculture
- Health
- Education
- Human Rights
- Computer Science
- Engineering
- Business
- Environmental Studies
- Public Policy
- Governance
- Social Sciences
- And several other approved programmes listed in the official Directory of Eligible Programmes.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Be a resident citizen of one of the eligible African countries.
- Possess between two and three years of substantial professional work experience directly related to the intended course of study, depending on country-specific requirements.
- Hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited and government-recognized institution.
- Have a minimum GPA equivalent to 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, typically equivalent to a First Class or Second Class Upper degree.
- Have obtained the bachelor’s degree in 2015 or later.
- Not already possess a master’s degree or higher qualification (country-specific exceptions may apply).
- Not currently be enrolled in a master’s programme or scheduled to begin one during the 2026/2027 academic year.
- Be applying to begin a new master’s programme in Ireland from August 2027.
- Demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to contributing to sustainable development in their home country.
- Select three eligible master’s programmes from the official programme directory.
- Meet the English language admission requirements for their selected universities.
- Have applied to the Ireland Fellows Programme no more than once previously.
- Be available to commence studies during the 2027/2028 academic year.
Application Process
The application process is completed in three stages.
Stage 1: Preliminary Application
Complete and submit the Stage 1 application form before the application deadline.
Stage 2: Detailed Application
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to submit a more detailed application together with supporting documents.
Stage 3: Interview
Candidates who successfully pass the second stage will be invited for interviews before final selections are made.
English Language Requirement
Applicants should note that all Irish higher education institutions require proof of English language proficiency.
English language test results are mandatory for admission into Irish universities and are also required during the visa application process. Applicants should review the language requirements for each selected programme carefully.
Required Documents
Applicants should prepare the following:
- Completed Stage 1 Application Form
- Directory of Eligible Postgraduate Programmes
- Academic transcripts and degree certificate (where required)
- Supporting documents requested during subsequent application stages
Applicants are advised to carefully read the official Applicant Guidance Note before beginning the application, as eligibility requirements may vary slightly depending on the applicant’s country.
Why You Should Apply
The Ireland Fellows Programme is more than a scholarship. It is a leadership development opportunity that combines world-class education with international exposure, professional networking, and practical skills that can help participants make meaningful contributions in their countries after graduation.
Graduates join an international network of professionals working across government, civil society, academia, healthcare, technology, education, agriculture, and the private sector.
Final Thoughts: Tips to Submit a Strong Application
The Ireland Fellows Programme is highly competitive, so preparing a thoughtful and well-organized application can make a significant difference. Consider the following tips:
- Choose programmes strategically. Select master’s courses that clearly align with your educational background, work experience, and long-term career goals.
- Highlight your professional impact. Rather than simply listing your responsibilities, demonstrate measurable achievements, leadership roles, and projects that created positive change in your workplace or community.
- Show commitment to the SDGs. The programme places strong emphasis on sustainable development. Explain how your studies will help you contribute to solving challenges in your country after graduation.
- Prepare for English language requirements early. If your chosen university requires an English proficiency test, plan ahead so your results are available on time.
- Follow the guidance carefully. Read the Applicant Guidance Note thoroughly and ensure every required document is submitted correctly. Incomplete applications may not be considered.
- Start your application early. Waiting until the final days can lead to avoidable mistakes or missed deadlines. Give yourself enough time to review every section before submission.
Above all, be authentic. A clear vision for how your education will benefit your community, combined with evidence of leadership and professional excellence, will strengthen your application.
Apply Here
Interested applicants should visit the official Ireland Fellows Program webpage to download the Applicant Guidance Note, the Stage 1 Application Form, and the Directory of Eligible Program before beginning their application or CLICK HERE.
