Applications are now open for the Ireland Fellows Programme Africa 2027/2028, a prestigious fully funded scholarship that enables talented professionals from eligible African countries to pursue a master’s degree in Ireland.
The programme aims to develop future leaders, strengthen professional capacity across Africa, and promote lasting partnerships between Ireland and participating countries. Furthermore, it equips fellows with advanced knowledge and leadership skills that support national development and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
If you are an early or mid-career professional looking to advance your education while expanding your global network, this opportunity is worth considering.
Application Deadline
Application Deadline: 26 July 2026
You can also explore more fully funded scholarships, master’s scholarships, study abroad opportunities, and leadership programmes on OpportunityLab.net
Why the Ireland Fellows Programme Africa 2027/2028 Is Worth Applying For
Pursuing postgraduate education can open new career opportunities. However, financial barriers often prevent qualified professionals from achieving their goals.
The Ireland Fellows Programme Africa 2027/2028 removes those barriers by covering tuition, travel, accommodation, insurance, and living expenses. In addition, participants receive leadership development that prepares them to drive meaningful change in their home countries.
Moreover, fellows become part of a global network of professionals committed to sustainable development and international cooperation.
Eligible Countries for the Ireland Fellows Programme Africa 2027/2028
Applicants must be citizens 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
Therefore, applicants should confirm their eligibility before beginning the application process.
Eligible Courses Under the Ireland Fellows Programme
The programme supports a wide range of master’s degree courses.
Eligible fields include:
- Agriculture
- Health
- Education
- Human Rights
- Computer Science
- Engineering
- Business
- Environmental Studies
- Governance
- Public Policy
- Other approved postgraduate programmes listed in the official directory
Applicants must select three eligible programmes that align with their academic qualifications and professional experience.
Eligibility Criteria for the Ireland Fellows Programme Africa 2027/2028
To qualify, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a resident citizen of an eligible African country.
- Have at least two or three years of relevant professional work experience, depending on the country.
- Hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
- Have earned the degree in 2015 or later.
- Not already possess a master’s degree or higher qualification, except where specific country guidance applies.
- Not currently study for a master’s degree.
- Intend to begin a new master’s programme in Ireland from August 2027.
- Demonstrate leadership potential and commitment to achieving the SDGs.
- Show dedication to strengthening relationships between Ireland and their home country.
- Select three eligible master’s programmes from the official programme directory.
- Meet the English language requirements of their chosen universities.
- Have applied to the programme no more than once previously.
- Be available to begin studies during the 2027/2028 academic year.
Applicants should review the official guidance carefully because some eligibility requirements vary by country.
Benefits of the Ireland Fellows Programme Africa 2027/2028
The fellowship provides comprehensive financial support throughout the study period.
Successful applicants will receive:
- Full university tuition fees
- Visa application fees
- Medical insurance
- Travel insurance
- Economy-class return flights
- Irish residence permit fee
- Settling-in allowance
- Completion and departure allowance
- Monthly living stipend of €700 (subject to review)
- Fully paid accommodation during the first two study trimesters
- Accommodation allowance of €800–€1,000 during the third trimester, depending on location
Consequently, participants can focus entirely on their academic and professional development.
Application Process for the Ireland Fellows Programme
The application process consists of three stages:
Stage One: Preliminary Application
Applicants submit the initial application form together with the required information.
Stage Two: Detailed Application
Shortlisted candidates complete a more detailed application and submit additional supporting documents.
Stage Three: Interview
Finally, successful candidates attend interviews before final selection.
English Language Requirements
All successful applicants must satisfy the English language requirements of their chosen Irish higher education institutions.
Additionally, English language test results are required for university admission and visa processing. Therefore, applicants should prepare early to meet these requirements.
Required Application Documents
Applicants should prepare the following documents before applying:
- Completed Stage One application form
- Bachelor’s degree certificate
- Academic transcripts
- Directory of eligible postgraduate programmes
- Any additional documents requested in the applicant guidance notes
Preparing these documents early can help ensure a smooth application process.
How to Apply for the Ireland Fellows Programme Africa 2027/2028
Interested applicants should carefully read the official Applicant Guidance Note before completing the Stage One application form.
Additionally, applicants should review the Directory of Eligible Programmes to identify three suitable master’s programmes before submitting their applications.
You can also discover more fully funded master’s scholarships, leadership fellowships, study abroad programmes, and professional development opportunities on OpportunityLab.net
Because applications undergo multiple review stages, early submission is strongly recommended.
