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Study in Ireland

Written by  Rachit Agrawal, MBA

Published on Sat, May 4, 2019 11:06 AM   Updated on Mon, December 16, 2019 6:50 AM   22 mins read

Source: Guidance for Graduates

Europe has been a preferred destination as far as higher education is concerned, and Ireland is one of the most popular options available. The universities in Ireland have been offering world-class education since time immemorial. Many students plan to study in one of the most popular schools in different universities in the country. Some of the most famous and critical domains in which the Irish Universities excel include humanities, economics, technology, and natural sciences. There are a lot of options for getting a Bachelors’s or a Masters’s in the country. Along with all this, the university provides you with a multicultural environment which is a necessary part of the student life in any domain.

Why Study in Ireland?

There are nine reputable universities in Ireland along with 15 technical institutes. Both can house around 35000 students from around the globe(approximately 161 countries).

The government of Ireland invests a huge amount of money in research and development. They also encourage international students to take up further studies in Ireland itself by providing scholarship schemes to them.

Ireland is an English speaking country and therefore, most of the students can easily accommodate themselves with the people over there. Language is not a barrier to Ireland.

There are about 5000 qualifications that one can choose from and the fact is that all of them are internationally recognized. The research and development field in Ireland is increasing exponentially and they have reached milestones in terms of research impact in social science, humanities, and natural sciences.

Ireland is also one of the safest and friendliest countries so one can never feel lonely or separated out. Also, Ireland is Europe’s most entrepreneurial country so getting opportunities there must comparatively easier.

Reasons to study in Ireland

In case you wish to start your journey of higher education in Ireland, you are looking at one of the best available options. The city is rich in scenic beauty as well as academic beauty. The universities offer world recognized degrees and an excellent career option ahead. Along with this comes the experience of being able to spend significant time in your academic life in a beautiful country like Ireland. Some reasons are:

  • Excellent curriculum
  • Option to learn a new language
  • Cheaper education options
  • Scholarships up to 100 percent
  • Work opportunities after completion of the degree

Education in Ireland

Ireland has a well-managed education system divided into three sectors, namely:

  • University
  • Institutes of Technology
  • Private Independent College

Top Universities in Ireland

There are several options available for higher education in Ireland. This includes specialist colleges, universities, technological universities, etc. Along with the courses offered, there are a large number of vocational programs offered, which include subjects like healthcare, pharmacy, media, textiles, marketing, etc. Ireland has seven renowned public and some very good private universities, which are ranked among the top 700 in the QS World University Rankings of 2019.

List of top Ireland Universities:

  • Trinity College Dublin, the University of Dublin
  • Dublin Business School
  • University College Dublin
  • National College of Ireland
  • Griffith College
  • National University of Ireland Galway
  • Dublin City University
  • University College Cork
  • Technological University Dublin
  • University of Limerick
  • Cork Institute of Technology 
  • Maynooth University
  • Waterford Institute of Technology
  • Athlone Institute of Technology 
  • IBAT College Dublin

Study in Ireland for Indian students

Ireland provides you with outstanding food and culture opportunities, along with the best employment options. Along with all this comes the most important aspect – a warm welcome whenever you go to Ireland. Ireland is one of the top destinations for Indian students, with several Universities providing up to one hundred percent scholarships. Other benefits include cheaper options for stay, technologically advanced nation, and friendly people.

Top Universities for Study in Ireland for Indian Students

  • University Of Limerick
  • University College Dublin
  • University College Cork
  • Maynooth University
  • Dublin City University
  • Technological University Dublin
  • Waterford Institute of Technology
  • Athlone Institute of Technology
  • National College of Ireland
  • Griffith College
  • National University of Ireland Galway
  • Cork Institute of Technology 
  • Trinity College Dublin, the University of Dublin
  • Dublin Business School

Requirements for study in Ireland for Indian Students

  • Marksheets: Standard X, XII and Bachelor’s (In some courses)
  • TOEFL or IELTS scores
  • Letter of Recommendations – Two
  • Work Experience for some courses
  • Academic resumes for some courses
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Proof of Funds
  • Copy of Passport

Cost for study in Ireland for Indian students

For the citizens of Ireland, the undergraduate courses are free. For Indian/International students, the fee is nominal if we compare it with other countries. For the undergraduate courses in Ireland, the fee is around 9000 to 45,000 EUR/year. Similarly, for the postgraduate and doctorate courses, the fee is around 9000 to 38,000 EUR/year.

Study in Ireland for International Students

Ireland has many good university options for international students. There are a lot of good food and cultural opportunities, along with the best employment options. The country provides you with a warm welcome. Some universities provide you with a hundred percent scholarship options. Students should do extensive research before choosing any university for tertiary education.

Some universities are as follows:

  • Griffith College
  • Trinity College Dublin
  • University College Dublin
  • Dublin Business School
  • National University of Ireland
  • Dublin City University

The colleges are as follows-

  • Mary Immaculate College
  • National College of Art and Design
  • Royal College Of Surgeons In Ireland
  • Shannon College of Hotel Management

Top Institutes of Technology for International Students in Ireland

The Top Institutes of Technology in Ireland are:

  • Athlone Institute of Technology (AI )
  • Cork Institute of Technology (CIT)
  • Dundalk Institute of Technology (DKIT)
  • Galway Mayo Institute of Technology (GMIT)
  • Institute of Art Design and Technology (IADT)
  • Institute of Technology Carlow (IT Carlow)
  • Institute of Technology Sligo (IT Sligo)
  • Institute of Technology Tralee (IT Tralee)
  • Letterkenny Institute of Technology (LYIT)
  • Limerick Institute of Technology (LIT)
  • Waterford Institute of Technology (WIT)

Study in Ireland or the UK

United KingdomIreland
Top Universities in London are University of Westminster, King’s College London, OxfordTop Universities in Ireland are Dublin City University, Trinity College of Dublin, University College of Cork
British Culture speaks of matters of History and MannersExtensive focus on warmth by the locals, beautiful landscape and hospitality
Boren Scholarships and Benjamin A. Gilman Scholarships are available.Boren Scholarships and Benjamin A. Gilman Scholarship are available
Popular study programs include Languages, Economics and EngineeringPopular study programs include Medicine, Engineering and English.

How to apply to study in Ireland

Third level education entry for the Irish students is based on the performance of the student in final secondary examination and competition. Entry requirements for international students require a lot of documentation to be produced, along with a valid IELTS/TOEFL score. In case you are applying without a score, you may do extensive research on the same and look for universities taking students without an IELTS. The process to apply is:

  • Qualification Recognition
  • Apply for a course
  • Getting a Student Visa
  • Considering Tuition Costs and Scholarships
  • Getting a part-time job to fund your stay and academic life

The following are the most preferred set of steps to follow for you to bag a seat at one of the reputed institutes in Ireland:

Step 1– Detailed study of each of the qualifications One must collect enough information about each qualification he/she is interested in and must compare and contrast regarding each point. One should choose a qualification only after that.

Step 2– Apply for any one course One must be quite alert before applying for a course and apply accordingly. They must know what they are getting into.

Step 3– Student VISA One of the most important steps. Get your student visa before the classes commence. Also, choose the appropriate visa that suits your course requirements.

Step 4– Scholarship Gather information about what scholarships you can apply for and start applying as soon as possible. Choose the ones that match your course requirements.

Study in Ireland requirements

Third level education entry for the Irish students is based on the performance of the student in final secondary examination and competition. Entry requirements for international students require a lot of documentation to be produced, along with a valid IELTS/TOEFL score. In case you are applying without a score, you may do extensive research on the same and look for universities taking students without an IELTS.

  • TOEFL or IELTS scores
  • Marksheets: Standard X, XII and Bachelor’s (In some courses)
  • Work Experience for some courses
  • Letter of Recommendations – Two
  • Proof of Funds
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Academic resumes for some courses
  • Copy of Passport

Study in Ireland without IELTS

International students get an opportunity to apply to many universities in Ireland without giving IELTS. With excellent communication skills and English education, the students can get an opportunity to apply without any IELTS score. Some various advantages and disadvantages come along with applying without an IELTS. Some cases can prove to be expensive, so students must go through extensive research before going for this option.

  • Go to the University’s website to check for the whole process to apply without IELTS. 
  • Submitting a supporting proof about English education previously is important.
  • Candidate should also submit proof of having studied English between 8th-12th standard.
  • Students have to give telephonic or video interviews whichever required according to the University’s assessment.
  • Candidates should be able to submit supporting proof that they pursued their education in an English medium institution.

Study in Ireland cost

For the citizens of Ireland, the undergraduate courses are free. For international students, the fee is nominal if we compare it with other countries. For the undergraduate courses in Ireland, the fee is around 9000 to 45,000 EUR/year. Similarly, for the postgraduate and doctorate courses, the fee is around 9000 to 38,000 EUR/year.

UniversitySubjectPrice
University College DublinM.Sc Computer ScienceRs 19.63 Lakhs
Dublin Business SchoolMaster of Science (MSc) in Data AnalyticsRs 9.89 Lakhs
Technological University DublinM.Sc in Data AnalyticsRs. 10.29 Lakhs
Technological University DublinB.Sc in Computer ScienceRs 9.50 Lakhs
The National College of IrelandB.Sc Honours in ComputingRs. 7.12 Lakhs

● Cost of Undergraduate courses in Ireland: 9,000 – 45,000 EUR/year for UG courses.

● Cost of Postgraduate Master and Ph.D. course in Ireland: 9,000 – 38,000 EUR/year.

The fee varies as per the course of your choice and its availability and demand. Also, the fee depends on the university that you want to study in.

Cost of Studying at Top Universities in Ireland

Following are some of the most highly ranked universities in Ireland and their average annual tuition fee is also mentioned alongside:

  • University College Dublin – 6700 EU / year
  • Trinity College Dublin- 7500 EU / year
  • National University Of Ireland- 6000 EU/ year
  • Royal College of Surgeons Ireland- 6000-8000 EU / year

Study in Ireland for free

The cost of living in Ireland is slightly less when compared to other European countries. It is an ideal place to get higher education with advantages like a full-fee waiver. There are a lot of ways through which student fees can be waived. To accommodate the other costs, a part-time job shall suffice. Following are some of the ways to avail the benefits of free education in Ireland:

  • Doing proper research
  • Look for the best options for the course you aspire
  • Get Scholarships
  • Apply to Universities in Ireland
  • Getting a Part-time job

Cheap Universities in Ireland for International Students

Following is a list of cheap universities in Ireland:

  • Dublin Business School
  • Griffith College Dublin
  • National University Of Ireland
  • University of Limerick
  • Trinity College Dublin

Study Marketing Ireland

Marketing is an important part of the business, and students find it an important tertiary education option. Marketing has components like product management, distribution, pricing, and consumer behavior. There are options for cheap marketing courses in some Irish Universities. The following are some of the universities which provide options to study marketing:

  • University College Dublin
  • Trinity College Dublin
  • National College of Ireland
  • Dublin Institute of Technology
  • National University Of Ireland, Maynooth

Study Optometry Ireland

Optometrists are the ones who detect eye diseases requiring medical attention. Diseases like diabetes are detected first by Optometrist. Optometrists do not have tertiary or secondary care options as they don’t provide permanent treatment of eye diseases. Being an option, there are a number of universities providing the same to international students:

  • Royal College of Surgeons
  • University College Dublin
  • University College Cork
  • National University of Ireland, Galway
  • University of Limerick

Study in Northern Ireland

Northern Island, an easy to travel option, is one of the smallest countries in the UK. The country provides you better and high-quality teaching methods, research facilities, and specializations. The country is packed with natural and scenic beauty providing you with extensive mythological and cultural aspects. Some of the top universities in North Ireland are:

  • Queen’s University Belfast
  • Ulster University
  • St Mary’s University College
  • Stranmillis University College
  • South Eastern Regional College – SERC

Study Ecology Ireland

Ecology, as a subject, is one of the most popular courses when it comes to undergraduate, masters, and doctorate. There is a lot of career and research options post completion of a degree in the same. For this, the students need to make extensive research on the subject and also look for options that would be helpful for the same. Some of the universities providing an option for subjects in ecology are as follows:

  • Trinity College Dublin
  • University College Cork
  • National University of Ireland, Galway
  • Griffith College
  • University of Limerick

How to study Nursing in Ireland

Nursing is one of the best options for graduation to enter the medical field. A lot of domestic and international students apply for the course in the number of university and college options available. The universities that offer Nursing as an option require international students to have documents like IELTS and TOEFL scores, previous working experience, and certificates. The universities providing the option of Nursing are as followed: 

  • Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology
  • National University of Ireland, Galway
  • Dublin City University
  • University College Dublin
  • University of Limerick

Where to study medicine in Ireland

International students look for options in Europe to pursue their dream of entering the medicine line. MBBS in Ireland is one of the most attractive destinations for international students, including Indian students. The following are some of the universities, degrees of which are recognized worldwide. 

  • Royal College of Surgeons
  • University College Dublin
  • University College Cork
  • National University of Ireland, Galway
  • University of Limerick

Study Geology Ireland

Geology as a subject is one of the most popular courses when it comes to undergraduate, masters, and doctorate. There is a lot of career and research options post completion of a degree in the same. For this, the students need to make extensive research on the subject and also look for options that would be helpful for the same. Some of the universities providing an option for subjects in ecology are as follows: 

  • University College Dublin
  • Trinity College Dublin
  • National University Of Ireland, Maynooth
  • University College Cork
  • National University of Ireland, Galway

Study Geography Ireland

Geography as a discipline is an amalgamation of social and natural worlds. A number of international students look for options to do majors and minors in the various domains within Geography. The various university options also have options for providing hundred percent scholarships. Some of the universities are: 

  • College of Arts, Celtic Studies and Social Sciences. Cork, Ireland
  • Trinity College Dublin
  • University College Cork
  • National University of Ireland, Galway
  • University of Limerick

Study History Ireland

History as a subject is one of the most popular courses when it comes to undergraduate, masters, and doctorate. There is a lot of career and research options post completion of a degree in the same. For this, the students need to make extensive research on the subject and also look for options that would be helpful for the same. Some of the universities providing an option for subjects in ecology are as follows: 

  • University College Dublin
  • Trinity College Dublin
  • University of Limerick
  • Dublin City University
  • National University of Ireland, Galway

Study Linguistics Ireland

Linguistics craze among international students is increasing, and they are searching for the best and most affordable options for getting a tertiary education in the same. This makes Ireland one of the best and most affordable options for students looking for an undergraduate, master’s, or doctorate degree in Linguistics. The Universities providing the same in Ireland are as followed:

  • University College Dublin
  • Trinity College Dublin
  • University of Limerick
  • Dublin City University
  • National University of Ireland, Galway

Why study Medicine in Ireland

International students look for options in Europe to pursue their dream of entering the medicine line. MBBS in Ireland is one of the most attractive destinations for international students, including Indian students. The following are some of the reasons why medicine should be pursued in Ireland:

  • Extensive government and private sponsored research and development spending in the field
  • A large number of options available
  • Cheaper and affordable options
  • Option to go for University Education without a formal IELTS or TOEFL score
  • Career Opportunities

Why study English in Ireland

English Language Schools in Ireland are located in prime locations of the country. University degrees are recognized worldwide and give you an option to build a career in the future. There are a large number of universities providing the course are affordable fees, which can further be decreased by going for scholarships. Some of the universities are as follows:

  • College of Arts, Celtic Studies and Social Sciences. Cork, Ireland
  • Trinity College Dublin
  • University College Cork
  • National University of Ireland, Galway
  • University of Limerick

Study Dance Ireland

Students who aspire to do their graduation in Dance have an excellent opportunity to find universities and colleges in Ireland. Students have to undergo comprehensive training in Contemporary, Jazz, Musical Theatre, Tap, Vocal Studies, and Classical Ballet. Some of the universities in Ireland which provide this opportunity are as follows:

  • Metropolitan School of Dance
  • Kate Buckley School of Dance
  • Irish Burlesque School
  • Kinetix Dance School
  • Phoenix Performing Arts College and Studio

Study Theology Ireland

Theology, as a subject, is one of the most popular courses when it comes to undergraduate, masters, and doctorate. There is a lot of career and research options post completion of a degree in the same. For this, the students need to make extensive research on the subject and also look for options that would be helpful for the same. Some of the universities providing an option for subjects in ecology are as follows: 

  • University College Dublin
  • Trinity College Dublin
  • National University Of Ireland, Maynooth
  • University College Cork
  • National University of Ireland, Galway

Study abroad in Limerick Ireland

Limerick is located in the Midwest region of Ireland. It has a lot of international students coming to attend various schools, colleges, and universities available in the area. The degrees are recognized in all countries, like the US, the UK, Germany, Ireland, and Norway. Universities are as follows: 

  • University of Limerick
  • Griffith College
  • MidWest Business Institute
  • Dominican Biblical Institute
  • Mary Immaculate College

Study Hotel Management in Ireland

Hotel Management helps train the students to be able to gain career opportunities in the hospitality industry. The various establishments in the hospitality industry consist of an airline, hospitals, cruise, etc. Some of the universities providing courses in Hotel Management in Ireland are as follows:

  • National University of Ireland, Galway
  • Galway- Mayo Institute of Technology
  • Waterford Institute of Technology
  • Athlone Institute of Technology
  • Letterkenny Institute of Technology

Study Midwifery Ireland

Midwifery is a highly skilled and professional course that equips students with skills, attributes, and knowledge to be able to deliver family centers and safe care. Many renowned Universities around Ireland provides courses on the same. Some of the universities are listed below:

  • University College Dublin
  • Trinity College Dublin
  • University of Limerick
  • University College Cork
  • National University of Ireland, Galway

Study Veterinary Ireland

Veterinary science nurtures individuals who are skilled in the care of the health of animals. Several universities in Ireland provide degrees in the same. Some of them also provide you with full scholarships. Some of the Universities having courses in Veterinary Sciences are listed below:

  • National University of Ireland, Galway
  • Galway- Mayo Institute of Technology
  • Waterford Institute of Technology
  • Athlone Institute of Technology
  • Letterkenny Institute of Technology

Living in Ireland

Cost of Accommodation in Ireland for Students

Ireland gives you the best of both worlds. It gives quality education and fun along with only a bit over average living cost for the European places. One can spend about 600-1000 EU / month as their living expenses including food and lodging. One of the major expenses includes housing or accommodation. A student has to spend about 38% of the total monthly budget on accommodation.

Students can have a variety of options when it comes to accommodation in Ireland. They can select on-campus accommodation which is in demand always as it is a safer and more reliable option for anyone.

Not all colleges have this facility and it can be cheap as well as too expensive depending upon the type of institution. Also, finding on-campus accommodation is itself a tedious task.

Most universities offer a hall of residence that can house about 4-8 students at a time and comes with the facilities of a private bedroom, shared bathroom, kitchen, and living room. The accommodation fee can be paid in two installments i.e., in September and February. You usually can’t pay the rent on a monthly basis.

Students can also choose independent accommodation which is self-catering. The price and utility may vary from place to place. You can also choose to live with a family. In such a case, one can have the required independence(with some rules) and the comfort of being at home altogether.

Entertainment in Ireland

The people in Ireland are way more friendly than in any other country. One can easily make friends over here. There are usually a lot of societies and clubs in the college which you can join and take full advantage of. Staff is also available to help you let set in the environment.

Be free to ask for their help. There are a lot of festivals held in Ireland so a person who wants such thrilling experiences can never get bored here. A lot of live bands can be seen performing almost everywhere. If you don’t like all this, Ireland has something for you too.

The natural beauty and cafes in the country of Ireland attract a lot of peace-loving people. Also, Ireland is a historical and full of culture country. If you are fond of such things, you can go for it and make your own story here.

Food- The food here is definitely something to look for. The mixture of cosmopolitan and multi-culture society is the reason for such a diverse food culture in Ireland. The restaurants sometimes serve a special type of food based on some religion or special dietary requirements. Ireland is famous for its distinctive alcoholic products whiskey and stout. The whiskey is aged for a minimum of seven years in wooden barrels in Ireland which gives it the special taste.

Traveling- Travelling around Ireland has become easier in recent years. Thanks to the improved transport system and the new motorway system that allows anyone and everyone to travel from one place to another with ease and no bumps and hops. There is a decent network of public transport available in Ireland that provides a good and comfortable journey to all the passengers. Their extensive bus service and Irish rail offer a comfortable and economical way of traveling from city to city. Also, you may avail of the student discount that is given on the basis of a student ID card in Dublin Bus, DART, Irish Rail, LUAS and others.

Thus, Ireland is a student-friendly country that provides internationally recognized courses with a little over average living cost.

FAQs

1. Is Ireland a good place to study?

Ans. Ireland has a young vibrant population, with 40% of the population under the age of 25; Ireland is one of the most exciting places in the world to be as a student. Ireland is also regarded as a safe country to study and live in. The Global Peace Index ranked it as the 12th “most peaceful country” in 2013.

2. Is Ireland good for international students?

Ans. Ireland is a popular choice for international students for its rich heritage, fantastic higher education institutes, reasonable tuition fees and a number of other elusive factors.

3. What are the benefits of studying in Ireland?

Ans. One of the major benefits of studying in Ireland is the post-study visa. This makes it easier for students to look for job opportunities in the country after they graduate and, once they have found employment, they are then eligible to apply for a green card/work permit.

4. Is Ireland good for MS?

Ans. In Ireland, you can do MS within 20 Lacs so it’s a good option if you are weak in funding or loans. Another reason to do MS in Ireland is that Ireland is ranked “friendliest country” for every person because their people are so much welcoming and they are really helpful to everyone.

5. Can I stay in Ireland after the study?

Ans. You may be able to stay and work in Ireland after you graduate, but there are some restrictions. If you are a non EU graduate, you can apply for an extension to your study visa for up to six months (up to 12 months in the UK) after you get your exam results, so you can get work experience.

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About the Author & Expert

Avatar

Rachit Agrawal

Author • MBA • 20 Years

Rachit believes in the power of education and has studied from the top institutes of IIIT Allahabad, IIM Calcutta, and Francois Rabelias in France. He has worked as Software Developer with Microsoft and Adobe. Post his MBA, he worked with the world's # 1 consulting firm, The Boston Consulting Group across multiple geographies US, South-East Asia and Europe.

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