Ireland Fellows Programme 2027–2028 (Fully Funded)

Ireland Fellows Programme 2027–2028 (Fully Funded) | Complete Guide for International Students

The Ireland Fellows Programme is a prestigious, fully funded scholarship sponsored by the Irish Government through Irish Aid. It offers outstanding early- to mid-career professionals from eligible countries the opportunity to pursue a one-year Master's degree at leading higher education institutions in Ireland. The programme is designed to develop future leaders who will contribute to sustainable development in their home countries after graduation. (Ireland)

Scholarship Overview

Scholarship	Ireland Fellows Programme 2027–2028
Host Country	Ireland
Degree Level	Master's Degree
Funding	Fully Funded
Duration	10–16 months (depending on the programme)
Sponsor	Irish Aid (Government of Ireland)
Eligible Applicants	Citizens of selected eligible countries

Scholarship Benefits

Successful applicants receive a comprehensive funding package that typically includes:

• Full tuition fee coverage

• Return economy-class airfare

• Monthly living allowance (stipend)

• Accommodation allowance

• Health and medical insurance

• Visa application support

• Arrival and settling-in allowance

• Departure allowance

• Orientation and leadership development activities

• Academic support throughout the programme

The fellowship enables participants to study at some of Ireland's top universities while gaining professional and leadership skills. (Ireland)

Eligible Study Areas

Applicants can choose from a wide range of eligible Master's programmes, including:

• Agriculture and Food Security

• Climate Change and Environmental Science

• Public Health

• Computer Science

• Artificial Intelligence

• Engineering

• Education

• Human Rights

• Public Policy

• Economics

• Business Administration

• Sustainable Development

• Gender Studies

• Information Technology

• International Development

The exact list of eligible programmes varies by country and is published in the official programme directory. (Ireland)

Participating Universities

Scholars may study at leading Irish institutions, including:

• Trinity College Dublin

• University College Dublin

• University College Cork

• University of Galway

• Dublin City University

• University of Limerick

• Maynooth University

• Technological University Dublin

• Other approved higher education institutions

The available universities depend on the approved course list for each applicant's country. (Ireland)

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants generally must:

• Be a citizen and resident of an eligible country.

• Have at least a bachelor's degree with a strong academic record.

• Demonstrate leadership potential.

• Possess relevant professional work experience (requirements vary by country).

• Meet the English language requirements of the chosen university.

• Commit to returning to their home country after completing their studies.

• Apply only for eligible Master's programmes listed in the official directory.

Eligibility requirements may differ slightly depending on the applicant's country. (Ireland)

Required Documents

Applicants are usually required to submit:

• Completed online application form

• Passport or national identification

• Bachelor's degree certificate

• Academic transcripts

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)

• Personal statement or motivation letter

• Employment reference(s)

• Academic reference(s)

• Proof of work experience (if applicable)

Additional documents may be requested during the selection process.

Application Timeline

The Ireland Fellows Programme 2027–2028 officially opened applications on 29 June 2026 for many participating countries. For several programme streams, the application deadline is 26 July 2026, although dates can vary depending on the country. Applicants should always verify the deadline for their own country before applying. (ScholarshipTab)

Selection Process

The selection process generally includes:

1. Online application submission.

2. Eligibility screening.

3. Shortlisting of qualified candidates.

4. Interview (where applicable).

5. Final nomination.

6. University admission process.

7. Scholarship award confirmation.

Only applicants who successfully complete all stages receive the fellowship.

How to Apply

1. Visit the official Ireland Fellows Programme website.

2. Read the country-specific Applicant Guidance Note.

3. Confirm that your country is eligible.

4. Select an approved Master's programme.

5. Complete the online application form.

6. Upload all required documents before the deadline.

7. Await notification regarding the next stage of the selection process. (Ireland)

Official Website

The official programme information, eligibility criteria, country-specific guidance, and application portal are available here:

• Ireland Fellows Programme (Irish Aid): https://www.ireland.ie/en/irish-aid/get-involved/ireland-fellows-programme/ (Ireland)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Ireland Fellows Programme fully funded?

Yes. The scholarship covers tuition fees, travel costs, accommodation support, living expenses, health insurance, and other approved costs. (Ireland)

Can international students apply?

Yes, applicants from eligible countries designated by the programme are invited to apply. Eligibility is determined on a country-by-country basis. (Ireland)

Does the programme offer PhD scholarships?

No. The Ireland Fellows Programme primarily funds Master's degree programmes. It does not provide funding for PhD studies. (Ireland)

When is the application deadline?

For many 2027–2028 programme streams, the deadline is 26 July 2026, but applicants should check the official guidance for their specific country because timelines may vary. (Opportunities For Africans)