Studying in Ireland for international students

Considering pursuing your education in Ireland? Here's the ultimate guide for international students.

Ireland boasts a top-notch education system, welcoming and open-minded people, and easy-to-navigate big cities. Let's dive into why studying in Ireland is a great idea!

Why study in Ireland?

Schools and universities in Ireland are globally recognised. This means that graduates of Irish universities can get ahead in their careers all over the world. Let's go over more about why Ireland could be your best choice!

• High-quality education

Ireland's education system is consistently ranked as one of the best worldwide. It has 13 universities that are among the best in the world, and it puts a lot of emphasis on cutting-edge research and working with other countries to develop their teaching methods.

• Quality of life

Living in Ireland means enjoying a safe and welcoming environment, consistently ranked in the top 20 worldwide for quality of life, peace and human development. Plus, with a young population—about a third under 25—you'll be joining over 35,000 international students from 161 countries who've chosen to study here.

• The Irish culture

Irish people are proud of their nation and culture, and they are eager to share them with you. Even though Ireland is a small country (population: about five million), more than 70 million people worldwide claim to be of Irish descent. Once you've lived in Ireland, you'll have friends from all over the world.

Universities in Ireland for international students

Ireland is renowned for its world-class universities, many of which welcome a significant number of international students. Some prominent universities in Ireland with their ranking according to the QS World University Rankings 2024 include:

Admission requirements in Ireland for international students

In Ireland, Entry requirements for programs may vary depending on the number of places available so there is a great deal of competition for the more popular programs. That said, there is a list of required documents required from prospective applicants looking to apply for Undergraduate and Postgraduate programs.

• Academic transcript and Degree  completion Certificate  

• Resume (if applicable) 

• IELTS or TOEFL 

• GMAT or GRE tests 

• Personal Statement  

• A letter of recommendation 

Intakes in Ireland

The academic year in Ireland typically starts in September or October, depending on the institution and program.

Some universities may have additional intakes in January or February for certain courses.

Best courses to study in Ireland

Regardless of what you're looking to study, from Humanities to Engineering from Business to Computer Science and everything in between. there’s is certainly an Irish institution that will match your curriculum to perfection.

So, no matter what your chosen subject may be, studying in Ireland increases your options of where you’d like to write the next chapter of your learning story.

We have listed below some of the most popular programs offered at Irish Institutions

• Computer Science 

• Engineering 

• Business Administration 

• Health and Medicine 

• Finance 

The cost of studying in Ireland for international students

The cost of studying in Ireland will vary based on the type of degree and university you choose. You'll need between €11,000 and €35,000 to cover your college expenses.

Scholarships to study in Ireland for international students

Here are some of the most well-known scholarships for international students who want to study in Ireland:

Student visa requirements in Ireland for international students

Your visa requirements to study in Ireland will depend on your age and the type of degree you wish to pursue there. The Irish government offers two types of student visas, less than 90 days (about 3 months) you must apply for short stay C visa and if you are planning to study for more than 90 days (more than 3 months) the long stay D study visa which you can learn more about on their official website. 

In general, you will be required to submit the following:

• Valid passport or other travel papers. 

• Evidence of fee payment to the institution  

• Evidence of Finance  

• Evidence of Enrollment from a Irish university/college. 

• Private Medical Health insurance. 

• Statement affirming your intention to leave Ireland upon visa expiration. 

Best places to study in Ireland for international students

Dublin, Cork, Galway, and Limerick are among the best places to study in Ireland for international students. These cities are home to prestigious universities, vibrant student communities and rich cultural experiences. Additionally, they offer excellent amenities, affordable accommodation options and convenient transportation networks, making them ideal destinations for academic pursuits.

Cost of living in Ireland for international students

The cost of living in Ireland for students varies depending on factors such as location, accommodation choices and lifestyle preferences. Here’s a breakdown of estimated costs for international students:

On average, we estimate that a student will spend between €10,000 and €16,000 per year.

Work and study in Ireland

Ireland offers excellent opportunities for international students to work while studying. The country's student visa allows students to work part-time up to 20 hours a week during the academic term and full-time during scheduled breaks. This provides valuable work experience and helps cover living expenses.

Additionally, Ireland's thriving job market and strong economy make it an attractive destination for those looking to kick-start their careers while pursuing higher education.

Student Essential Services for Emirati international students 

We understand the hurdles that come with studying abroad—it can feel like navigating a maze! But fear not, our team is here with a full range of Student Essentials services. Our goal? To make your international study journey a breeze and add some fun to the mix. Here's what we've got in store for you:

1- Finding suitable accommodation 

2- Securing the right student health cover 

3- Student banking services 

4- Transferring money securely 

5- ISIC student card 

Career prospects and post-study opportunities

Graduates from Irish universities are highly sought after by employers globally, thanks to the country's strong economy and business-friendly environment.

Additionally, Ireland provides various pathways for international students to extend their stay after graduation, such as the Third Level Graduate Scheme, which allows graduates to work in Ireland for up to two years to gain valuable work experience. Moreover, Ireland's favourable immigration policies and thriving job market make it an attractive destination for building a successful career post-graduation. 

FAQs

How many gap years are acceptable in Ireland? 

There is typically no specified limit on the number of gap years for studying in Ireland, but it's recommended to check with universities for their specific requirement as this may vary by institution

Is IELTS required to study in Ireland? 

Yes, IELTS or an equivalent English language proficiency test is generally required for studying in Ireland.