South African graduates looking to study overseas now have an exciting opportunity to earn a fully funded Master’s degree in Ireland. Applications are officially open for the Kader Asmal Fellowship Programme 2027/2028, offering 12 prestigious scholarships that cover tuition, travel, accommodation and living expenses. If you have a strong academic record, leadership potential and a passion for making a difference, this could be your pathway to an internationally recognised qualification.
Kader Asmal Fellowship Programme 2027/2028 Opens for South African Graduates to Study in Ireland
The Embassy of Ireland in South Africa has opened applications for the Kader Asmal Fellowship Programme 2027/2028, giving talented South African graduates the opportunity to pursue fully funded Master’s degrees at leading universities in Ireland.
Managed by Ireland’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the fellowship forms part of the Ireland Fellows Programme and is designed to develop future leaders who will contribute to South Africa’s sustainable development.
Only 12 scholarships will be awarded for the 2027/2028 academic year, making this a highly competitive opportunity.
Opportunity Overview
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Organisation / Employer | Embassy of Ireland in South Africa |
| Programme Name | Kader Asmal Fellowship Programme 2027/2028 |
| Opportunity Type | Fully Funded Fellowship (Master’s Scholarship) |
| Industry | Higher Education |
| Location | Ireland |
| Duration | Master’s degree duration (depending on programme) |
| Target Applicants | South African graduates |
| Number of Awards | 12 Fellowships |
| Funding | Fully Funded |
Key Benefits
Successful fellows may receive funding for:
- Tuition fees
- University application fees
- Student visa application fee
- Return economy flights
- Accommodation
- Monthly living stipend
- Study allowance
- Book allowance
- Examination fees
- Settling-in allowance
Fellowship Breakdown
The Kader Asmal Fellowship supports academically outstanding South Africans who wish to complete a Master’s qualification in Ireland.
The programme aims to strengthen leadership, professional expertise and international collaboration while contributing towards South Africa’s development priorities and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Participants will study at top Irish higher education institutions and gain internationally recognised qualifications that can significantly improve career prospects.
Fields of Study Include
Applicants may apply for eligible Master’s programmes in areas including:
- Business
- Economics
- Leadership
- Project Management
- Climate Change
- Environmental Studies
- Sustainable Development
- Marine Studies
- GIS
- Human Rights
- Peace Studies
- International Relations
- Politics
- Public Policy
- Education
- Engineering
- Sustainable Technology
- Food Science
- Food Engineering
- Health
- Medicine
- Pharmacy
- Biotechnology
- Information Systems
- Communications Technology
- Digital Media
- International Law
- Human Rights Law
- Business Law
- Sociology
- Social Policy
- Social Research
- Tourism and Hospitality
- Women’s Studies
- Gender Studies
- Equality Studies
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be South African citizens
- Reside in South Africa
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree completed in 2015 or later
- Have completed an Honours degree
- Achieve at least a 75% Honours average
- Have a strong academic record
- Not hold or currently study towards a Master’s degree or higher
- Apply for a new eligible Master’s programme beginning in August or September 2027
- Demonstrate leadership potential
- Show commitment to South Africa’s Sustainable Development Goals
- Have at least two years of relevant work experience (including internships or volunteering)
- Be willing to strengthen relationships between South Africa and Ireland
- Select three eligible Master’s programmes
- Meet university academic and English language requirements
- Not have applied for this fellowship more than once previously
Stipend / Funding Details
The fellowship is fully funded and may include:
- Tuition fees
- Visa fees
- University application fees
- Economy flights
- Accommodation
- Monthly living allowance (stipend)
- Book allowance
- Study allowance
- Examination fees
- Settling-in allowance
Monthly stipend amount: Not disclosed.
Required Documents Checklist
Applicants should prepare:
- South African ID document or passport identity page
- Undergraduate degree certificate
- Final academic transcripts
- Grading system explanation (where applicable)
Applicants should ensure all documents are clear and complete, as missing documentation may result in disqualification.
How to Apply Step-by-Step
Step 1
Register an online application account.
Step 2
Read the official Kader Asmal Fellowship guidelines carefully.
Step 3
Complete the online application and upload all required supporting documents.
Step 4
Submit your application before the closing deadline.
Applicants who are asked how they heard about the programme may enter:
Closing Date
Applications Close: 27 July 2026
Deadline: 17:00 South African Time
Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.
Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit their applications well before the deadline to avoid technical issues.
Youthscope
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who can apply?
South African citizens residing in South Africa who meet all academic and eligibility requirements.
2. What qualifications are required?
Applicants need a Bachelor’s degree completed in 2015 or later and an Honours degree with at least a 75% average.
3. Is the opportunity open to unemployed youth?
Yes. Eligible graduates, including those with relevant internships or volunteering experience, may apply if they meet all programme requirements.
4. Is there a stipend?
Yes. A monthly living allowance is included, although the exact amount has not been disclosed.
5. How long does the programme last?
The duration depends on the Master’s programme selected.
6. How do applicants apply?
Applications must be submitted online after creating an account and completing all required sections.
Why You Should Apply
The Kader Asmal Fellowship offers far more than financial support.
Successful applicants gain:
- International Master’s qualification
- Leadership development
- Exposure to global academic networks
- Enhanced employability
- International career opportunities
- Skills to contribute to South Africa’s development
- Access to Ireland’s world-class higher education institutions
Career Pathways
Graduates may pursue careers in:
- Government
- Public Policy
- International Development
- Human Rights
- Climate and Environmental Management
- Engineering
- Healthcare
- Information Technology
- Law
- Business Leadership
- Research
- Education
- International Organisations
- Non-Governmental Organisations
The fellowship also provides an excellent foundation for future doctoral studies and senior leadership positions.
Expert Guidance (Mbalizuke Nkosi)
Before submitting your application, ensure that all supporting documents are certified where required and uploaded in the correct format. Take time to review the eligibility criteria carefully, especially the academic requirements, work experience and English language requirements for your chosen programmes.
Apply well before the closing date to avoid last-minute technical issues. Proofread every section of your application, ensure your academic records are complete and select eligible Master’s programmes that align with your long-term career goals. Attention to detail and early preparation can significantly strengthen your application.
Disclaimer
This article is provided for informational purposes only.
Applicants should verify all programme details, eligibility requirements and deadlines through the official Kader Asmal Fellowship Programme and the Embassy of Ireland in South Africa.
Never pay any individual or organisation claiming to guarantee selection for this fellowship. Genuine applications are processed through the official application platform, and all selection decisions remain solely with the programme administrators.
Mbalizuke Nkosi is the editorial voice behind YouthScope.co.za, a South African youth-focused platform dedicated to providing reliable information on opportunities, education, and career development. The platform serves students, graduates, job seekers, and young professionals by delivering accurate, timely, and easy-to-understand content.
Through informative and professionally curated content, YouthScope.co.za aims to equip young people with the knowledge and resources needed to make informed decisions about their education and future careers.
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