Deadline: July 26, 2025
Are you a driven professional from Cambodia, Laos, or Vietnam passionate about leadership, development, and global collaboration? The Ireland Fellows Programme – Asia 2026/27 offers you the opportunity to pursue a fully funded Master’s degree in Ireland while building your capacity to contribute to sustainable development in your country.
This prestigious fellowship, funded by the Government of Ireland, targets early-to-mid career professionals with leadership potential. It’s an exceptional opportunity to gain a world-class education and join a vibrant alumni network committed to change.
What the Ireland Fellows Programme – Asia 2026/27 Offers
The Ireland Fellows Programme – Asia 2026/27 provides a one-year, fully funded Master’s degree in a wide range of eligible disciplines at Irish higher education institutions. Here’s what the fellowship covers:
- Full tuition fees
- Visa and health insurance costs
- Return flights
- Accommodation support for the first two trimesters, and a monthly stipend thereafter
- Monthly stipend of approximately €700
- Settling-in and departure allowances
- Pre-departure training, volunteering opportunities, and access to a strong alumni network
Eligible Countries
Applicants must be nationals and residents of one of the following countries:
- Cambodia
- Lao PDR (Laos)
- Vietnam
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for the Ireland Fellows Programme – Asia 2026/27, you must:
- Be a national and resident of Cambodia, Laos, or Vietnam
- Hold a bachelor’s degree (minimum GPA 3.0/4.0), awarded in the last 12 years
- Have professional work experience:
- Cambodia & Laos: minimum of 3 years
- Vietnam: minimum of 2 years
- Not already hold or be currently pursuing a Master’s degree
- Commit to starting a Master’s programme in August/September 2026
- Demonstrate leadership potential, commitment to the SDGs, and a strong interest in Ireland
- Select three eligible Master’s programmes from the official programme directory
- Meet academic and English language requirements
- Not have applied more than once in previous cycles
Application Timeline (Asia Region)
The Ireland Fellows Programme follows a two-stage selection process:
Stage 1: Preliminary Application
- Opens: 30 June 2025
- Closes: 26 July 2025
Stage 2: Full Application + Interview
- Detailed application + interview: September–October 2025
Final Selection
- Offers made: Mid-2026
- Programme starts: Autumn 2026
Selection Process: What to Expect
Here’s what the typical application journey looks like:
- Stage 1: Preliminary application to assess eligibility
- Stage 2: Full application, including essay questions and supporting documents
- Interview: Conducted by the local Irish Embassy (if shortlisted)
- Language test (if applicable): IELTS, Duolingo, or equivalent may be required
- Final selection and conditional offer
Note: Be vigilant with communication—several applicants report missing updates due to incorrect email addresses or communication lapses.
Key Tips for a Strong Application
- Tailor your essays to showcase leadership experience, your development impact, and your alignment with Ireland’s values
- Select programs wisely: Choose three relevant Master’s programmes from the official list
- Secure strong referees early on
- Prepare for interviews: Expect questions about your goals, motivation, and development vision
- Have a valid English test (if required) ready in time
How to Apply
If you meet the eligibility criteria and are passionate about development, this is your chance to make a difference while gaining an exceptional education.
For assistance with proposal drafting, refining, and review, contact grantsdatabase.org.
