Study in Ireland – Top Universities, Scholarships, Visa, Intake
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Study in Ireland – Top Universities, Scholarships, Visa, Intake
Ireland is fast becoming a preferred study abroad destination for many international students due to the quality of the education, as well as the advancing technology department. Several reputable universities that exist in Ireland include Trinity College Dublin, University College Dublin (UCD), and University College Cork, which offer undergraduate and postgraduate programs amongst other fields such as Computer Science, Engineering, Business and Arts. Ireland is also populated with an international skyline of tech goliaths, including Google, Apple as well as Facebook, therefore, making Ireland a mecca for students with an affinity for technology.
It costs between €9,000 and €25,000 to study annually in Ireland based on the program and the institution. The expenditure on some of the necessities of life is about €7000 to €12000 yearly. International students need a Student Immigration Permission (previously known as a student visa) to study in Ireland. Most academic programs in Ireland have two major intakes: September/October or autumn, and January/February or spring. In order to apply, students have to submit letter of acceptance from any accredited institution, proof of finance, and health insurance. There are many scholarships available, including government-funded schemes, university-specific awards, and private grants. Research opportunities and part-time work options can also significantly reduce costs. Some of the scholarships that are available in Ireland includes; Government of Ireland International Education Scholarship University and specific scholarships as well as scholarships by private companies.
The Irish Post Study Work Visa allows the graduates to work in the country for up to two years in case the attained degree was from a Level 8 course, making it a preferred choice for gaining work experience. Education in Ireland is a combination of quality academics, excellent job prospects, and exposure to different cultures.
Latest Update: -
- Dublin City University Business School has received accreditation from EQUIS, which places it among 1 % of the global business schools
- Dublin has ranked as the 32nd best place in the QS Best Student Cities out of 150 top study destinations worldwide
Key Highlights
- Trinity College Dublin, University College Cork, and Dublin City University are strong in research and innovation.
- Courses in Artificial Intelligence, Sustainability, and Digital Marketing are in high demand.
- Newly available funding such as Government of Ireland Scholarships and regional university grants offer inclusion.
- It processes faster and less complicated requirements with proof of funds and accommodation.
- Extended work permits and pathways to residency create an incentive for skilled graduates to stay and contribute.
Table of Contents
| Top Courses |
Engineering, Business Analytics, Mathematics, Medicine, Data Analytics, Pharmacy, Chemistry, Economics and Others |
|---|---|
Average tuition fees |
€9000 – 45000 per year |
How many higher education institutions |
Approximately 33 universities |
Post-study work visa | |
Trinity College Dublin (Ranking 87) University College Dublin (Ranking 126) University College Cork (Ranking 273) The University of Galway (Ranking 273) Dublin City University (421) |
Why Study in Ireland?
- World-Class Education: Ireland boasts a high-quality education system with internationally recognized universities and strong academic programs.
- Vibrant Culture: Experience a rich cultural heritage with a blend of Irish traditions and modern influences.
- English-Speaking Country: Immerse yourself in a native English-speaking environment, enhancing your language skills.
- Excellent Job Prospects: Gain valuable international experience and build a strong network, increasing your employability globally.
- Affordable Tuition: Tuition fees in Ireland are very competitive compared to some other English-speaking countries.
- Stunning Scenery: Experience Ireland’s natural beauty- from rugged coastlines to rolling hills.
- Friendly and Welcoming: Discover Irish hospitality and develop lifelong connections with locals and fellow international students.
- Research Opportunities: Engage in cutting-edge research at leading institutions, contributing to academic advancements.
- Travel Opportunities: Use Ireland’s central location to travel to other parts of Europe while studying.
Education System in Ireland
- The education system in Ireland is highly advanced and comprehensive.
- Students get the opportunity to choose from a large variety of subjects and state-of-the-art educational institutes.
- Each of these universities is backed by advanced and cutting-edge curriculums and the knowledge and experience of professors and industry-led experts.
- Students can avail scholarships to fulfill their dreams and can also get good working opportunities both in Ireland and in the international market.
Eligibility to Study in Ireland
- Applicants need to have second-level qualifications for international students applying for undergraduate students such as the International Baccalaureate or the A-Levels.
- Post-graduate students need to have at least a 2.1 honors degree from an Irish university or something equivalent to this
Document Required to Study in Ireland
Undergraduate students
- Two academic references
- Final high school exam results, or Predicted Scores provided by your school
- A 500-word statement of purpose
- A recognised certificate of English Language Competency
Postgraduate studies
- Two academic references (or where appropriate clinical referees)
- Academic transcript(s) which must be certified by the issuing body
- Certified copy of degree certificate(s)
- A recognised certificate of English Language Competency
Top Courses to Study in Ireland
| Course Name | Fees | Intake |
|---|---|---|
EUR 24140 |
Fall and Spring | |
EUR 20,000 – 40,000 per year |
Fall and Spring | |
10,000 – 15000 per year |
Fall and Spring | |
EUR 50,000 – 60,000 per year |
Fall and Spring | |
Business Analytics |
EUR 14500 – 25000 per year |
Fall and Spring |
Top Universities to Study in Ireland
| Top Universities | QS Ranking | Action |
|---|---|---|
Trinity College Dublin |
87 | |
University College Dublin |
126 | |
University College Cork |
273 | |
University of Galway |
273 | |
Dublin City University |
421 | |
University of Limerick |
421 | |
Maynooth University |
801 – 850 | |
Technological University Dublin |
851 – 900 |
Intake in Ireland
Cost of Studying in Ireland
Cost of Living in Ireland
Scholarships to Study in Ireland
| Name of Scholarship | Description | Funding |
|---|---|---|
This scholarship is available to students coming from countries other than the EU, Switzerland, and the UK. The students need to have a final offer of admission |
EUR 10,000 for one year | |
NUI Galway International Student Scholarships |
It is a merit-based scholarship available for students outside EU | |
Maynooth University Scholarships |
This scholarship is given to students who have recently enrolled in this university |
EUR 1000 |
This scholarship is given to both Indian and international students. The scholarship is available for undergraduate, postgraduate and other degrees. |
EUR 36000 for undergraduate students
EUR 3000 for postgraduate students |
Part-Time Work Options for International Students in Ireland
- International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and 40 hours per week during holidays.
- The students must be enrolled in a full-time course listed on the Interim List of Eligible Programmes (ILEP)
- Some of the common part-time job roles include retail assistant, food service staff, delivery driver, hospitality roles, and administrative assistant.
- Students are entitled to Ireland’s national minimum wage, currently €11.30 per hour (as of 2025).
- No additional work permit is required for part-time work
- Students can look at the local job boards such as Jobs.ie, Indeed, and college career services.
- They can also apply for a Personal Public Service (PPS) number for tax purposes.
Post-Study Work Permit in Ireland
- Eligible graduates can remain in Ireland to seek employment or seek a work permit.
- Up to 12 months for Level 8 graduates and up to 24 months for Level 9 and above.
- Graduates of Irish institutions with NFQ Levels 8-10 qualifications.
- Graduates can work full-time (40 hours/week) during the duration.
- There is a second-year extension for some Level 9 or higher qualifications.
- It should be applied to the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service.
- The graduates can switch to work permits such as the Critical Skills Employment Permit.
Student Visa requirements for Ireland
- International students need to have a valid visa to study at any Ireland universities
- There are two kinds of Visas available for students, such as, C study visa and D study Visa
- C study Visa is for people who will study in Ireland for less than 3 months
- D study Visa is for people who will study for more than three months
Documents Required for Visa Application
- Current passport
- Letter of acceptance from a university
- score of English Language Proficiency tests
- Proof of fee payment at the university
- Evidence of funds (EUR 7000) to provide for living expenses
- Medical insurance details
- Evidence of academic ability
- A statement of commitment that you will leave Ireland after 3 months
Job prospects in Ireland
| Job Titles | Salary (EUR) |
|---|---|
Site Manager |
EUR 80,000 per year |
Civils Foreman |
EUR 46500 per year |
EUR 45500 per year | |
EUR 40,000 per year |
Final Take Away
- Globally ranked institutions like Trinity College Dublin and University College Cork are considered to be of the highest order in terms of academic and research excellence.
- This institution combines lectures with practical learning through projects, internships, and real-world applications.
- It offers cutting-edge programs in Artificial Intelligence, Green Technology, and Creative Media.
- Universities maintain a strong tie-up with industries to provide students with internship and networking opportunities.
- Multicultural campuses promote the building of global and cross-cultural perspectives.
- Full-time, part-time, and blended learning options fit diverse needs
- Irish qualifications are under international frameworks, enhancing the mobility of learners worldwide.
FAQs
Where can you find the best universities for education in Ireland and what kind are those universities?
The best and most popular universities to attend in Ireland are; Trinity College Dublin, University College Dublin, NUI Galway, University College Cork and Dublin City University.
How expensive is it to study in Ireland?
Undergraduate and postgraduate courses cost from €10,000 to € 25,000 per annum; this depends on the course and the university offering the program.
Which scholarships are out there for international students intending to study in Ireland?
Some of the scholarships that are provided for international students include; the Government of Ireland Scholarship, Trinity College Dublin Scholarships, UCD Global Scholarships.
If I want to be a student in Ireland, how do I get a student visa?
To apply, fill out the online application form, and submit acceptance documentation from a recognized Irish institution, proof of funds, medical insurance, and passport.
Is it legal for international students to work while studying in Ireland, specifically is it allowed for them to work part time?
Finally, international students with a valid stamp 2 visa are allowed to work up to 20 hours throughout the week during term time and 40 hours while learning in it's holidays.