Embassy of Ireland in South Africa
Kader Asmal Fellowship
Closes
27 July 2026
Value
Fully funded
Level
Master's Degree
For
South African Citizens
Sector
Multiple Disciplines
Type
Fellowship
About this bursary
The Kader Asmal Fellowship Programme offers fully funded Master's scholarships to South African students studying in Ireland. Funded by the Irish Department of Foreign Affairs and managed in partnership with Canon Collins Trust, the award covers twelve students for the 2027/2028 academic year.
The programme honours the memory of Professor Kader Asmal, a human rights activist who taught law in Ireland and served in South Africa's democratic government. It aims to develop future leaders who can contribute towards the Sustainable Development Goals.
Selected scholars receive complete coverage for academic fees, travel, accommodation, and living costs while studying at leading Irish institutions.
Courses of study covered
What the bursary covers
Who can apply
You qualify if
- You must be a South African citizen currently residing in South Africa.
- You must hold a Bachelor's degree completed in 2015 or later, as well as an Honours degree with a minimum academic average of 75%.
- You must have at least two years of relevant work experience, which can include internships or volunteering.
- You must be applying for a new Master's degree programme in Ireland starting in August or September 2027.
- You cannot hold a Master's degree already or be currently enrolled in a Master's programme.
- You must demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to achieving Sustainable Development Goals in South Africa.
- You must select three eligible programmes and satisfy all academic and English language entry criteria.
You do not qualify if
- Applicants who already hold a Master's degree or higher qualification.
- Individuals who are not South African citizens residing in South Africa.
- Candidates who have applied for the Kader Asmal Fellowship Programme more than once in previous years.
Documents you need to submit
- Copy of passport identity page or South African national ID document
- Undergraduate degree award certificate
- Final academic transcripts including an official explanation of the grading scale
Clear supporting documents must be submitted with your online application.
How to apply
- 1Review the official Kader Asmal Fellowship guidance notes and directory of eligible Master's courses.
- 2Select three eligible postgraduate courses offered by participating Irish institutions.
- 3Open the online application portal and register an account.
- 4Fill in all required personal, academic, and professional details.
- 5Upload clear copies of your identity document, degree certificate, and transcripts.
- 6Submit your completed application online before the official closing time.
Applications close strictly at 17:00 South African time on 27 July 2026.
How you are selected
Forms, downloads and links
Application form
gapgrants.com/bslgap/DseatFFX.jsp?formset=canon&formid=18Eligible courses directory (PDF)
canoncollins.ams3.digitaloceanspaces.com/media/2026/06/29095054/Ireland-Fellows-Programme-Directory-of-Programmes-2027-28.pdfApplication guidelines (PDF)
canoncollins.ams3.digitaloceanspaces.com/media/2026/06/29095039/IFP-Kader-Asmal-2027-28-Stage-1-Guidance-Note.pdfEmail the bursary team
[email protected]