The Kader Asmal Fellowship Programme is a fully funded scholarship opportunity offered to South African students to study at the master’s level in Ireland’s world-renowned higher education institutions.
Application Deadline:
- 26 July
Tell Me About the Fellowship Program:
The Kader Asmal Fellowship, part of the Ireland Fellows Programme, supports South African nationals in pursuing master’s-level study in Ireland. Its aims are to nurture future leaders, strengthen in‑country capacity to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and build positive relationships between South Africa and Ireland.
Eligible Courses:
Applicants can choose from a directory of eligible programs in areas such as
- Agriculture
- Health
- Education
- Human Rights
- Computer Science
- Engineering
- Business
Type:
- Master’s Fellowship | Ireland Fellows Programme | South Africa
Who can apply?
Applicants must:
- Be resident nationals of South Africa.
- Have at least two years of substantial work experience relevant to the chosen program.
- Hold a bachelor’s degree (minimum GPA 3.0/4.0; awarded in 2015 or later).
- Not already hold or be undertaking a master’s or higher qualification.
- Apply to commence a new master’s program in Ireland from August 2027.
- Demonstrate leadership abilities, commitment to SDGs, and willingness to build positive ties with Ireland.
- Select three programs from the Directory of Eligible Programs.
- Meet academic and English language requirements.
- Not have applied more than once previously.
- Be able to take up the fellowship in 2027/2028.
How Are Applicants Selected?
The selection process has three stages:
- Preliminary Application.
- Detailed Application.
- Interview.
Applicants must also meet English language requirements:
- Shortlisted candidates take the Duolingo English Test (accepted by most Irish HEIs).
- If the chosen program does not accept Duolingo, candidates must take IELTS in January 2027.
Which Countries Are Eligible?
- South Africa only.
Where is the fellowship taken?
- Ireland – at participating Irish higher education institutions.
What is the benefit of the fellowship program?
- Full financial support for tuition, living costs, and travel.
- Leadership development and networking opportunities.
- Contribution to national capacity building and SDGs.
How Long Will the Fellowship Last?
- Duration of master’s program (typically 1 year full‑time).
Required Documents:
- Preliminary application form.
- Detailed application form (if shortlisted).
- English language test results (Duolingo or IELTS).
- Supporting documents as per guidance notes.
How to Apply:
- Read the Stage 1 Guidance Note.
- Select three eligible programs from the directory.
- Complete the online preliminary application.
- Progress through detailed application and interview stages if shortlisted.
Visit the Application Webpage for details
