About the opportunity
What this programme is offering
Ireland Fellows Programme Objectives
The Ireland Fellows Programme Africa is designed to invest in future leaders by providing access to world-class higher education while promoting international collaboration. The fellowship seeks to:
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Develop leadership skills among emerging professionals.
Strengthen institutional and national capacity.
Support achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Build lasting professional and diplomatic relationships with Ireland.
Enhance knowledge transfer through postgraduate education.
Successful candidates will pursue eligible master’s degree programmes at Irish higher education institutions beginning in the 2027/2028 academic year.
Eligible African Countries
Applications are open to nationals residing in 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
Applicants from several countries should note that participation is by invitation only through Irish Aid partner organisations, government departments, or organisations identified by the Embassy of Ireland.
Geographic Reference
Eligible Fields of Study
The fellowship supports a wide range of master’s programmes aligned with national development priorities, including:
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Agriculture
Health
Education
Human Rights
Computer Science
Engineering
Business
Public Policy
Governance
Other development-related disciplines listed in the official Directory of Eligible Programmes
Candidates are required to select three eligible master’s programmes that align with both their academic qualifications and professional experience.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must satisfy several academic and professional criteria before applying. Eligible candidates must:
Be nationals and residents of an eligible African country.
Hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution awarded in 2015 or later.
Achieve a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale or equivalent academic performance.
Possess at least two to three years of relevant professional work experience, depending on their country.
Not already hold a master’s degree or higher qualification.
Not be enrolled in another master’s programme.
Demonstrate leadership potential and commitment to sustainable development.
Show dedication to contributing to national development and strengthening Ireland-Africa partnerships.
Apply for a new master’s programme beginning no earlier than August 2027.
Have applied to the Ireland Fellows Programme no more than once previously.
Be available to commence studies during the 2027/2028 academic year.
Applicants are also expected to understand the academic and English language entry requirements for each selected programme.
Application Process
The selection process consists of three competitive stages:
Preliminary Application
Detailed Application
Interview
Applicants are encouraged to carefully review the official Applicant Guidance Note before submitting their applications, as eligibility requirements vary by country.
English Language Requirements
English language proficiency remains a mandatory admission requirement for all Irish higher education institutions.
Candidates shortlisted after the first application stage who do not already possess an accepted English language qualification will undertake the Duolingo English Test, which is recognised by most Irish universities.
Colleges & Universities
Where an institution does not accept Duolingo scores, shortlisted candidates will instead complete an IELTS examination scheduled for January 2027.
Fellowship Benefits
The Ireland Fellows Programme provides comprehensive support to successful scholars pursuing postgraduate education in Ireland. However, the fellowship is awarded solely to the selected recipient.
The programme does not provide financial assistance or visa support for spouses or dependents accompanying fellows.
Supporting Africa’s Future Leaders
The Ireland Fellows Programme continues to strengthen educational cooperation between Ireland and African nations by investing in professionals capable of delivering lasting social and economic impact. Through advanced education, leadership development, and international collaboration, the initiative empowers graduates to contribute meaningfully to public institutions, civil society, and private sector development across Africa.
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Interested applicants are encouraged to review all application documents carefully and ensure they meet every eligibility requirement before beginning the application process.
How to apply