Study in Ireland for International Students
The main reason it would be a great option to study in Ireland for international students is the country’s quality of education and employment opportunities. Ireland has one of the top education systems in the world.
Most importantly, Ireland’s graduates have access to a wide range of professional options around the globe. The country is located on an island in the Atlantic Ocean. Its beautiful green countryside also makes it a popular tourist destination for studying abroad.
Why Study in Ireland?
Ireland is one of the best countries to live and work in Europe as an international student. Its economy grew by almost 10% in 2017 alone and is expected to grow even faster today. With a population of over 4 million people, many jobs are available for graduates.
According to the OECD’s 2019 Education Report, young people in Ireland boast the fourth-highest literacy globally. Thereby, a decision to study in Ireland for international students will be meaningful in the grand scheme of things.
Are there English language requirements to study in Ireland?
All applicants to universities in Ireland are required to demonstrate evidence of a minimum English language level to be accepted onto courses. If you are applying for a visa to study in the UK, you need to prove that you have a certain English proficiency level. This level is sometimes called the ‘B2′ level.
Most courses in Ireland usually require an IELTS test score of at least 6.0 (with no band score below 5.0). A pass in Trinity ISE Level 3 in each component will also meet this requirement.
Universities may require a higher score than others to study in Ireland for international students. Therefore, it is important to look at each individual course and university requirement.
If you meet the minimum English language requirements for entry into your chosen course, then you will also meet the English language requirement needed by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). Universities may grant you a conditional offer if you don’t meet the English language requirements. You must meet them before the start of the course.
Universities in Ireland accept a wide range of different English language qualifications, so please check the available options for other acceptable exams.
Living in Ireland for international students
During the past few years, the Irish economy has experienced a growth in demand in the financial services industry, life sciences, engineering, pharmaceutical, and technology sectors. Many corporations have chosen Dublin as the location for their regional offices and software development centers due to the success of the Irish technology sector.
Moreover, Ireland has a lower corporate tax rate than the United Kingdom and the United States so starting a business in Ireland is arguably more profitable. Software developers and engineers are in high demand due to the enhanced profitability in the technology industry.
Ireland is a beautiful country to study in, and although it may seem like a long way away from home, there are many reasons why studying abroad here could be a great choice. Students who decide to study abroad often have to pay high rent, however, which can make things difficult when balancing work and studies.
Renting accommodation in Dublin, for example, can quickly run into hundreds of euros per month. But if you’re looking for ways to reduce your living expenses while still enjoying yourself, consider the following options.
If you’re planning to move out of Dublin, you might be able to save some cash by living elsewhere in Ireland.
How much does it cost to study in Ireland for international students?
You should expect to pay between €8,150 and €14,800 a year in tuition fees if you want to study in Ireland as an international student. It is worth checking with your selected university to see whether you are eligible for a scholarship to assist with the cost of your education.
Expenditures when living in Ireland as an international student are comparable to other European countries regarding daily expenses. If you want to live in a big city like Dublin, you will have to spend extra on your housing/rent.
Other things you might want to consider when deciding where to live in Ireland include the following:
Estimated cost of living for students in Ireland
| Item | Cost (Monthly) | Cost (Yearly) |
|---|---|---|
| Rent (outside Dublin) | €480 – €575 | €5,200 – €6,100 |
| Rent (inside Dublin) | €575 – €700 | €6,300 – €7,400 |
| Utilities | €40 | €395 |
| Food | €183 | €2,000 |
| Transportation | €105 | €1,200 |
| Study materials and books | €82 | €920 |
| Clothing | €45 | €515 |
| Health insurance | €12 | €130 |
| Mobile phone and wifi | €58 | €685 |
| Social life | €42 | €500 |
Health insurance is another expense you should keep in mind if you intend to study in Ireland. Also, ensure you possess a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) card to enjoy free medical care if you are eligible.
You must acquire a valid health insurance policy if you do not have an EHIC card. If you already have a medical insurance policy, ensure that it is valid in Ireland. If you don’t already have health insurance coverage, you will want to get a policy that covers you while in studying in Ireland. Contact your institution if you have questions about health insurance.
What are the best courses to study in Ireland for international students?
You can study a wide variety of courses in Ireland universities. The best courses to study in Ireland for international students including Data Science and Computer Science, Business Analytics, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Construction Management, and Lingistics.
Which are the best universities in Ireland?
Ireland is home to more than seven public institutions of higher learning. Some of these are in the world’s top 500. Below is a list of some of the best universities in Ireland:
1. University of Dublin
2. Dublin City University
3. NUI Galway
4. University of Limerick
Can I study in Ireland for free as an international student?
Tuition fees in Ireland vary greatly based on which university you choose to attend and your nationality. Ireland can offer free tuition under the Free Fees Initiative if you choose to be a full-time undergraduate student. You will also not incur tuition fees if you are an EU student attending a public university.
However, if you’re an EU student, you may pay tuition fees if you are not attending a public university or a postgraduate program. Moreover, suppose you are a student from outside the EU. In that case, you are required to pay fees regardless of the education level you are applying for or where you intend to study in Ireland as an international student.
Are there scholarships to study in Ireland for international students?
International students can apply for several scholarships, many of which are awarded by the Irish government or Irish higher education institutions. You are advised to seek more specific information about your eligibility for these scholarships by contacting the institution or organisation directly.
If you want to study medicine, dentistry or veterinary science, the Irish government offers a number of scholarships for foreign students. These include the Health Professions Scholarship Scheme, the Veterinary Medicine Scholarships Programme and the Medical Sciences Scholarships.
Can international students work in Ireland?
You are eligible to work in Ireland as an international student for up to 40 hours per week during university holidays or 20 hours weekly if you are in full time studies. You lose your right to work when your work visa expires. You may choose to extend your stay in Ireland after completing your studies and take up a job in a relevant field.
How to apply for a student visa to study in Ireland
Ireland is one of the most popular destinations for international students. However, there are some restrictions on studying in Ireland for international students.
The Irish government says it wants to attract more foreign talent to the country. And while it welcomes those from outside the European Union, it does require applicants to hold a valid student visa.
But what exactly qualifies someone for a student visa?
- You must provide evidence of having sufficient funds to support yourself whilst studying in Ireland. This includes proof of financial capacity.
- You must show that you have enough money to cover accommodation costs during your studies.
- You must prove that you have health insurance while studying in Ireland.
- You must submit a copy of your international passport along with your application.
Do you want to study in Ireland? You may also be interested in studying abroad in these countries:
Study in Australia, Study in Austria, Study in Belgium, Study in Cyprus, Study in Estonia, Study in Germany, Study in New Zealand, Study in Norway, Study in Poland, Study in Qatar, Study in Romania, Study in Turkey
