Deadline: 27 July 2025
Open to: Early to mid-career professionals from eligible Asian countries
Benefits: Fully funded postgraduate study in Ireland with stipends and allowances
Description
The Ireland Fellows Programme – Asia, part of Ireland’s International Development Programme, is designed to nurture future leaders by providing access to world-class postgraduate education in Ireland. This prestigious fellowship enables candidates to undertake one-year master’s level programmes in fields such as sustainable development, climate change, human rights, and international relations, among others. The programme aligns with Ireland’s commitment to building capacity in partner countries, fostering skills and knowledge that contribute to sustainable development goals. By studying at renowned institutions like University College Dublin, Trinity College Dublin, and University of Galway, fellows gain cutting-edge expertise and intercultural experiences, equipping them to drive impactful change in their home countries. The programme emphasizes practical and theoretical learning, with courses tailored to address global challenges like climate resilience, food security, and social justice, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to address pressing issues in their professional fields.
Eligibility
The Ireland Fellows Programme is open to early to mid-career professionals who are nationals of and residing in eligible Asian countries, including Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Vietnam, and others listed on the programme’s official website. Applicants must hold a minimum of a Level 8 honours bachelor’s degree (equivalent to a second-class honours, Grade 2 or higher) in a relevant discipline, though specific programmes may have additional requirements, such as professional experience or a higher academic threshold (e.g., a 2.1 honours degree). Candidates without a degree but with significant relevant work experience may be considered under Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) schemes for certain courses. Proficiency in English is mandatory, with a minimum IELTS score of 6.5 (no component less than 6.0, though some programmes require higher scores, such as 7.0). Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to contributing to their country’s development and have at least two to three years of relevant professional experience, depending on the programme.
Benefits
The Ireland Fellows Programme provides comprehensive financial support to ensure fellows can focus on their studies without financial burdens. Benefits include:
- Full coverage of tuition fees for the chosen postgraduate programme.
- A monthly stipend to cover living expenses in Ireland.
- Accommodation allowances to support housing costs.
- Travel allowances for return flights to Ireland.
- A settling-in allowance to assist with initial expenses upon arrival.
- Access to academic and professional development opportunities at Ireland’s leading universities. These benefits enable fellows to immerse themselves fully in their studies and engage with Ireland’s vibrant academic and cultural environment, fostering both personal and professional growth.
How to Apply
Applications for the Ireland Fellows Programme 2026-2027 must be submitted online via the programme’s official webpage at https://www.irishaidfellowships.ie/strands/ireland-fellows-programme-asia.html. Candidates are required to select up to two eligible postgraduate programmes from the Ireland Fellows Programme Directory, which includes courses like MSc in Climate Change, MA in International Development, and MSc in Sustainable Energy, offered at institutions across Ireland, such as Dublin, Cork, and Galway. The application process involves completing an online form, submitting academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS results), and a detailed statement outlining the applicant’s motivation and commitment to development goals. Applicants should carefully review the programme-specific requirements in the directory, as offers are at the discretion of the higher education institutions. The application deadline is Sunday, 27 July 2025, at 23:59 (local time in Ireland). Early submission is recommended due to the competitive nature of the programme.
Contact Information
For queries, please contact the relevant Embassy of Ireland.
For more information, please visit the official website.
