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Are you a young professional with leadership potential and a drive to create positive change in your home country? The Ireland Fellows Programme 2026-2027 offers a prestigious, fully funded master’s degree opportunity in Ireland, specifically for early to mid-career professionals from eligible countries. This initiative, funded by the Government of Ireland, empowers emerging leaders to gain advanced academic knowledge and global exposure—without any financial burden.
Applications open from 30 June 2025 to 25 July 2025, and selected scholars will begin their studies in September 2026. These fully funded scholarships in Ireland could be your gateway to a world-class education and a platform to create a meaningful impact.
About the Ireland Fellows Programme
The Ireland Fellows Programme is a government-sponsored initiative that supports future changemakers from select African and developing countries to pursue a one-year master’s degree at leading Irish universities. The goal is to build skills, networks, and leadership capacities aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Fellows are expected to return to their home countries and apply their learnings in areas such as governance, education, health, climate, agriculture, and innovation.
Ireland Fellows Programme 2026 Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Ireland Fellows Programme 2026–2027 |
| Host | Government of Ireland |
| Level | Master’s (one year, full-time) |
| Application Stage 1 | 30 June – 25 July 2025 |
| Application Stage 2 | 22 September – 17 October 2025 |
| Interviews | November–December 2025 |
| Program Start Date | August/September 2026 |
| Scholarship Type | Fully Funded |
What Does the Ireland Fellows Programme 2026 Cover?
The scholarship is completely funded by the Irish Government and includes generous support for living and academic expenses.
- Full tuition for selected master’s program
- Economy-class airfare to and from Ireland
- Student visa application fee
- Irish Residence Permit (IRP) fee
- Medical and travel insurance
- Monthly stipend of €700 (subject to review)
- Accommodation provided for the first 9 months (Trimester 1 and 2)
- Monthly housing allowance of €800–€1000 during the final trimester
- Settling-in and departure allowances
- Academic, cultural, and professional enrichment opportunities
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
- Be a citizen and resident of an eligible country
- Applicants must possess a minimum of 2 to 3 years of relevant professional experience, based on their country of origin.
- Hold a bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0 (4.0 scale) or equivalent
- Graduated no earlier than 2014
- Not already hold or be pursuing a master’s or higher degree
- Be committed to contributing to SDGs and development in their home country
- Have not applied more than once to the Ireland Fellows Programme
- Be available to begin their master’s program in September 2026
- Choose 3 eligible programs from the approved directory
- Meet the English language requirement of most programs (IELTS 6.5 overall or equivalent)
📍 Note: In some countries, applicants must be part of pre-approved government departments or NGOs affiliated with Irish Aid.
How to Apply
Stage 1: Preliminary Application
Timeline: 30 June – 25 July 2025
• Complete the Stage 1 application form
• Submit scanned copies of:
• Valid passport or national ID
• Undergraduate degree certificate
• Academic transcripts with grading system
• Shortlisted applicants who have not taken the IELTS will be required to take the Duolingo English Test.
Stage 2: Full Application
Timeline: 22 September – 17 October 2025
• Submit detailed application via email
• Attach the following documents:
• Recent passport-sized photo
• Degree certificates and transcripts
• Two academic reference letters
• Updated CV
• English proficiency test (IELTS from Sept 2024 or later)
Stage 3: Interview
Timeline: November – December 2025
• In-person or virtual interview with selection panel
• Provide certified hard copies of all academic and identification documents
Final Fellowship Decision
- Fellowship awards announced in June/July 2026
- Academic programs commence September 2026
Comparison with Similar Scholarships
| Feature | Ireland Fellows | Chevening (UK) | Fulbright (USA) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Host Country | Ireland | UK | USA |
| Funding | Fully funded | Fully funded | Fully funded |
| Duration | 10–16 months | 1 year | 1–2 years |
| IELTS Required? | Yes (or Duolingo) | Yes | Yes |
| Work Experience | 2–3 years | 2 years (preferred) | Optional |
| Available To | Select developing countries | 160+ countries | 155+ countries |
| Academic Field | Directory-based | Any master’s program | Any U.S. university program |
FAQs About Ireland Fellows Programme 2026
- Can I apply if I’m currently pursuing a master’s degree?
No. Applicants currently enrolled in or holding a master’s or higher degree are not eligible. - Is there an age limit for the Ireland Fellows Programme?
No official age limit, but candidates must be early to mid-career professionals. - Can I bring my spouse or children to Ireland?
No. The fellowship does not cover dependents. - What English tests are accepted?
Most institutions require IELTS (6.5 overall). Duolingo is used for initial assessments. - What happens if I don’t get selected at Stage 1?
You will be notified by the embassy. Only shortlisted candidates proceed to Stage 2. - Can I apply again if I’m rejected this year?
Yes, but only if you haven’t applied more than once before. - Do I need admission to a university first?
No. You will apply for university programs after being shortlisted. - Are part-time master’s programs eligible?
No. This only covers full-time, on-campus master’s programs. - How many students are selected each year?
There is no fixed number, but selection is competitive and country-specific. - Are online or distance learning programs allowed?
No. The scholarship only supports in-person programs in Ireland.
The Ireland Fellows Programme 2026–2027 is more than a scholarship—it’s a gateway to global leadership, cross-cultural collaboration, and impactful careers. If you’re passionate about social change, SDGs, and education, this is your chance to access one of Europe’s finest education systems—fully funded. APPLY NOW.
