Applications for the 2027 Nuffield Ireland Scholarships are now open.

Nuffield Scholarships are awarded once yearly, during the late Summer.

• How to apply, eligibility requirements and application closing date are advertised in the Irish Farmers Journal during Summer each year.
• Applications are taken via an online application form. When you click “submit” it will be sent to Nuffield Ireland.
• The closing date for receipt of applications for 2027 is 21st August 2026.
• First round of interviews will take place on Friday 28th August 2026, final interviews for those pre-selected in first round will take place on Friday 4th September. All interviews take place in person.
• The Scholars who will be selected will become a member of a worldwide group of agriculture’s forward thinkers and industry leaders.
• Prospective scholars are encouraged to get in contact with a scholar in their locality to prepare themselves for the application and interview process.
• Scholars are required to undertake at least 10 weeks travel during the 18 months scholarship period. This will include participating in the one-week Contemporary Scholars Conference, plus the Global Focus Programme, which will be about 5 weeks duration.
• Apart for the above, there are no restrictions on where, how or when a scholar travels on their individual travels.

Benefits of the Scholarship

• An opportunity to participate in an international agricultural leadership programme.
• Become a member of Nuffield Ireland to promote agriculture and agriculturally related issues.
• Become a member of a worldwide network of more than 1,700 Nuffield Farming Scholars, who have enjoyed the unique Nuffield experience.

Eligibility

• Applicants must be resident in Ireland.
• Applicants must work in the farming, food, rural and related sectors and be in a position to influence them.
• The preferred age for all applicants is 25-45 years of age at the time applications close, although applicants outside this range may also be considered.
• There is no requirement for academic qualifications, however, applicants will be well established in their career, and demonstrate a passion for the industry that they work in. Leadership potential and willingness to “give back” to the sector are sought after qualities in candidates.
• All Scholars are expected to remain engaged with the organisation in the future.
• Scholarships are not awarded to persons in full-time education or to further research projects.

Timetable

• Applications for 2027 Scholarships opens on 22 June 2026
• Closing date for receipt of applications for 2027 is 21st August 2026.
• First round of interviews will take place on Friday 28th August 2026, final interviews for those pre-selected in first round will take place on Friday 4th September. All interviews take place in person.