Fully Funded Ireland Fellows Programme 2025 Applications are Now Open

Admin,

Application Deadline: July 25, 2025

The Ireland Fellows Programme 2025 – Africa is officially accepting applications. This prestigious, fully funded scholarship enables early to mid-career professionals from eligible African countries to pursue a master’s degree in Ireland. Funded by the Irish Government and managed in partnership with the Canon Collins Trust, the programme aims to support future African leaders by offering world-class education and leadership development opportunities.

About the Programme

The Ireland Fellows Programme supports selected applicants to undertake a one-year, full-time master’s degree at a recognized Irish higher education institution (HEI).

  • Programmes commence in August or September 2026 and last between 10 and 16 months.
  • Eligible disciplines include public health, education, agriculture, climate science, human rights, gender studies, business, engineering, computer science, and more.
  • All eligible courses are listed in the official Directory of Eligible Programmes.

Programme Objectives

  • Build the leadership capacity of participants.
  • Support the advancement of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in participating countries.
  • Strengthen institutional and diplomatic relationships between Ireland and partner African nations.
  • Promote diversity, gender equality, and inclusive access to education.

What the Fellowship Covers

Selected fellows will receive a comprehensive scholarship package including:

  • Full tuition fees and university application costs.
  • Examination and academic-related fees.
  • Economy-class return flights to and from Ireland.
  • Monthly living stipend.
  • Accommodation and settling-in allowance.
  • Book and study materials allowance.
  • Health insurance.
  • Visa application costs.

Note: The fellowship only supports the selected individual. It does not cover dependents or spouses.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible, applicants must:

  • Be a national and resident of one of these 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, or Zimbabwe.
  • Hold a bachelor’s degree with at least a GPA of 3.0 (or equivalent), awarded no earlier than 2012.
  • Have 2–3 years of professional experience relevant to their field of study.
  • Not already hold or be pursuing a master’s or higher-level degree.
  • Demonstrate leadership qualities, commitment to the SDGs, and an interest in promoting Ireland-country partnerships.
  • Select three eligible courses from the official Directory of Eligible Programmes.
  • Meet specific academic and language requirements for each course.
  • Not have previously applied more than once to the programme.
  • Be available to start studies in Ireland by August or September 2026.

Special Application Guidelines

  • In select countries—such as Angola, Kenya, Liberia, Malawi, Rwanda, Uganda, and others—applications may be by invitation only, especially for employees of government ministries or NGOs aligned with Irish Aid strategies.
  • Interested candidates must confirm their eligibility through their employer or by contacting the local Irish Embassy.

How to Apply

  • Applications must be submitted online via the official portal.
  • Only successful Stage 1 applicants will be contacted by the Canon Collins Trust for further stages.
  • Applicants are advised not to contact Irish embassies during the selection process.
  • Review the full eligibility and academic guidelines before submission.

Deadline

  • The deadline to apply is 25 July 2025 at 5:00 PM GMT.
  • Early applications are strongly encouraged to avoid last-minute technical issues.

For more information and to apply, CLICK HERE

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