Ireland Fellows Programme 2027

Ireland Fellows Programme SIDS 2027 in Ireland | Fully Funded Master’s Scholarship for International Students

Share this opportunity

Applications are now open for the Ireland Fellows Programme SIDS 2027/28, a fully funded master’s scholarship in Ireland for students and professionals from eligible Small Island Developing States (SIDS). The programme is funded by the Government of Ireland and aims to support future leaders who are committed to sustainable development in their home countries. Selected fellows will study a one-year master’s degree at leading higher education institutions in Ireland while receiving comprehensive financial support.

The Ireland Fellows Programme is designed for early and mid-career professionals with relevant work experience who want to strengthen their knowledge and contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Besides earning a master’s degree, fellows become part of an international network of professionals and leaders while building long-term links with Ireland. The programme focuses on developing leadership skills, professional capacity, and expertise that can be applied to national development after graduation.

The Ireland Fellows Programme requires applicants to have professional experience related to their intended field of study. Candidates must also select three eligible master’s programmes from the official directory before submitting their application. Successful applicants will begin their studies in Ireland during the 2027/28 academic year.

Ireland Fellows Programme SIDS 2027 Details

  • Host Country: Ireland
  • Funded By: Government of Ireland
  • Study Level: Master’s Degree
  • Scholarship Coverage: Fully Funded
  • Eligible Applicants: Citizens of eligible Small Island Developing States (SIDS)
  • Application Deadline: 26 July 2026

Also Check: Leiden University Excellence Scholarship 2027 in Netherlands

Financial Benefits

The Ireland Fellows Programme is a fully funded scholarship that supports successful candidates throughout their studies in Ireland. The scholarship generally covers:

  • Full tuition fees.
  • Visa application costs.
  • International travel.
  • Accommodation and living expenses.
  • Monthly stipend.
  • Other approved programme-related expenses.

The fellowship covers only the selected scholar. Financial support for spouses, partners, or dependents is not included.

Also Check: Canada Graduate Research Scholarships 2027

Eligible Countries

Applicants must be nationals of one of the following eligible Small Island Developing States and must also be residing in an eligible SIDS country within the same region.

Africa

  • Cabo Verde
  • Comoros
  • Guinea-Bissau
  • Mauritius
  • São Tomé and Príncipe
  • Seychelles

Asia

  • Maldives
  • Timor-Leste

Caribbean

  • Antigua and Barbuda
  • Bahamas
  • Barbados
  • Cuba
  • Dominica
  • Dominican Republic
  • Grenada
  • Guyana
  • Haiti
  • Jamaica
  • Saint Kitts and Nevis
  • Saint Lucia
  • Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
  • Suriname
  • Trinidad and Tobago

Pacific

  • Cook Islands
  • Fiji
  • Kiribati
  • Marshall Islands
  • Federated States of Micronesia
  • Nauru
  • Niue
  • Palau
  • Papua New Guinea
  • Samoa
  • Solomon Islands
  • Tonga
  • Tuvalu
  • Vanuatu

Note: Applicants from Belize must apply through the Central America Award rather than the SIDS Fellowship.

Also Check: DAAD Study Scholarships 2027 in Germany

Eligibility Criteria of SIDS Fellowship

To apply for the Ireland Fellows Programme SIDS 2027, applicants must meet the following requirements:

  • Be a citizen of an eligible SIDS country.
  • Be residing in an eligible SIDS country.
  • Have at least three years of substantial work experience directly related to the proposed master’s programme.
  • Hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited and government-recognized institution.
  • Have a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale or equivalent. Applicants with a second-class honours Grade 2 may also be considered if they have substantial relevant work experience.
  • Have obtained a bachelor’s degree in 2015 or later.
  • Not already hold a master’s degree or a higher qualification.
  • Not currently enrolled in, or scheduled to begin, a master’s programme during the 2026/27 academic year.
  • Apply for an eligible master’s programme in Ireland beginning in 2027.
  • Demonstrate leadership potential.
  • Show commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals in their home country.
  • Demonstrate commitment to strengthening relationships with Ireland.
  • Select three eligible master’s programmes from the official programme directory.
  • Meet the academic and English language requirements for all selected programmes.
  • Have applied to the Ireland Fellows Programme no more than once previously.
  • Be available to begin studies during the 2027/28 academic year.

Also Check: Macquarie University Graduate Research Scholarships 2027 in Australia

English Language Requirement

Irish universities require proof of English language proficiency for admission.

Applicants shortlisted after the first stage who do not already have an accepted English language qualification will:

  • Take the Duolingo English Test if accepted by their chosen university.
  • Take the IELTS examination in January 2027 if their selected institution does not accept Duolingo scores.

Application Process of SIDS Fellowship

The Ireland Fellows Programme selection process consists of three stages:

  1. Preliminary application.
  2. Detailed application.
  3. Interview.

Applicants are advised to carefully review the official guidance before applying, as eligibility requirements may vary slightly by fellowship strand and country.

Required Documents

Applicants should prepare the following documents before submitting their application:

  • Completed Stage 1 application form.
  • Bachelor’s degree certificate and academic transcripts.
  • Employment information demonstrating relevant work experience.
  • Identification documents.
  • Any additional documents required in the Applicant Guidance Note.

Why Apply for the Ireland Fellows Programme?

The Ireland Fellows Programme offers an opportunity to earn a fully funded master’s degree from Ireland while gaining advanced academic knowledge and leadership skills. Graduates are expected to return to their home countries and contribute to sustainable development, strengthen institutions, and support national priorities. The programme also provides access to an international alumni network and long-term professional connections with Ireland.

Application Deadline

The last date to apply for the Ireland Fellows Programme SIDS 2027/28 is 26 July 2026. Early applications are recommended to allow enough time to prepare the required documents and select eligible master’s programmes.

Official Link to Apply

Share this opportunity