Applications are now open for the 2026–27 Kader Asmal Fellowship, offering fully funded opportunities for mid-career South African professionals to pursue a Master’s degree in Ireland.
This prestigious fellowship is part of the Ireland Fellows Programme and is funded by the Irish Government through Irish Aid. It provides full financial support for a 10 to 16-month Master’s program at top Irish universities.
Scholarship Summary
- Host: Irish Aid (Department of Foreign Affairs, Ireland)
- Eligible Countries: South Africa
- Category: Master’s Scholarships
- Eligible Country: South Africa
- Reward: Full Scholarship | Monthly Stipend | Accommodation | Round-trip Flight
- Deadline: July 25, 2025
Scholarship Details
The Kader Asmal Fellowship is designed to support early to mid-career professionals in South Africa with strong leadership potential, a commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and a passion for contributing to development in their home country. The program offers the opportunity to undertake a fully funded Master’s degree in Ireland, providing participants with academic growth, global exposure, and cultural exchange.
The fellowship promotes leadership, gender equality, academic excellence, and capacity building. Selected fellows will study at some of Ireland’s leading universities, gaining skills and knowledge to drive change in their sectors upon return. In addition to financial support, the program includes a strong network of support, mentorship, and professional development.
Eligibility Criteria
To be qualified for the Kader Asmal Fellowship, applicants must:
- Be a resident and citizen of South Africa
- Have a minimum of two years of relevant professional work experience
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale)
- Not currently hold or be pursuing a Master’s degree
- Not have applied more than once for the Ireland Fellows Programme
- Intend to begin a Master’s program in Ireland in 2026/2027
- Show leadership potential and a strong commitment to the SDGs
- Select three eligible Master’s courses from the approved directory
- Possess strong English language proficiency
Scholarship Benefits
Successful applicants of the Kader Asmal Fellowship will receive:
- Full coverage of tuition fees
- Accommodation allowance
- A settling-in allowance upon arrival in Ireland
- A monthly living stipend of €700
- Completion and departure allowance at the end of the program
- Round-trip airfare between South Africa and Ireland
- Health and accident insurance
- Support for additional incidental expenses
Required Documents
To apply for this scholarship, applicants must prepare to submit:
- Completed application form
- Bachelor’s degree certificate
- Academic transcripts
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Statement of Purpose
- Proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS or TOEFL scores)
- Copy of valid passport
- At least two letters of recommendation
- Evidence of relevant professional experience
How to Apply
To apply for the Kader Asmal Fellowship:
- Confirm that you meet all the outlined requirements
- Choose three eligible Master’s programs from the Ireland Fellows Programme Directory
- Gather all necessary academic, identity, and work experience documents
- Complete your application through the official Ireland Fellows Programme portal before the deadline
- Ensure all information and uploaded documents are accurate and complete before final submission
To begin the scholarship application process, click HERE
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