Ireland Fellowship Programme 2027–28

The Ireland Fellows Programme 2027–28 is set to officially open for applications on 29 June 2026, offering outstanding international professionals the opportunity to pursue fully funded master's degrees at leading higher education institutions in Ireland. Sponsored by the Irish Government, the programme is designed to support future leaders who can contribute to the sustainable development and growth of their home countries.

Beyond academic study, the fellowship provides leadership development opportunities, professional networking, and international exposure, making it one of Ireland's most prestigious scholarship programs for emerging professionals.

Scholarship Summary

• Host Country: Ireland
• Scholarship Name: Ireland Fellows Programme
• Funded By: Irish Government
• Degree Level: Master's
• Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
• Eligible Nationalities: Applicants from eligible partner countries
• Financial Coverage: Full tuition, travel, living expenses, and additional allowances
• Application Opening Date: 29 June 2026

Selected fellows can expect a comprehensive funding package that may include:

• Full tuition fee coverage
• International travel expenses
• Monthly living stipend
• Accommodation support
• Settling-in allowance
• Study-related expenses
• Leadership and professional development activities
• Access to academic and professional networks in Ireland

The final funding package for the 2027–28 intake will be confirmed in the official programme guidelines.

The Ireland Fellows Programme supports:

• Master's Degree Programs

The scholarship is intended for postgraduate study at participating Irish universities and higher education institutions.

The final list of approved courses will be announced with the official call, but previous editions have included fields such as:

• Public Policy and Governance
• Sustainable Development
• Climate Change and Environmental Studies
• Agriculture and Food Security
• Education
• Human Rights
• Public Health
• Business and Management
• Information Technology
• Engineering
• Social Sciences
• International Development

The programme is open to applicants from eligible partner countries designated under the Ireland Fellows Programme.

Eligibility requirements vary by country, and applicants should review the country-specific guidelines once applications officially open.

Applicants are generally expected to:

• Possess strong academic qualifications
• Have relevant professional work experience
• Demonstrate leadership potential
• Show commitment to contributing to the development of their home country
• Intend to return home after completing their studies
• Meet the admission requirements of participating Irish universities
• Satisfy any country-specific eligibility conditions

Interested candidates should follow these steps:

1. Wait for the official application portal to open on 29 June 2026.
2. Review the eligibility requirements for their country.
3. Select an eligible master's programme offered by participating Irish institutions.
4. Prepare academic transcripts, employment records, and supporting documents.
5. Complete and submit the online application before the published deadline.
6. Participate in interviews or additional selection stages if shortlisted.

Applicants are encouraged to begin preparing their documents early due to the highly competitive nature of the programme.

Why Apply for the Ireland Fellows Programme?

The Ireland Fellows Programme offers much more than financial support. It aims to develop future leaders by combining high-quality postgraduate education with leadership training and international collaboration.

Participants gain access to world-class universities, build professional networks across different sectors, and acquire skills that can help drive positive change in their communities after returning home.