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Ireland is one of the most popular destinations for international students heading to Europe. Ireland, with its beautiful setting in the British Isles, has also earned a reputation as one of Europe's most beautiful countries. The country has a long and storied history, as well as centuries of tradition and culture. Every year, over 30,000 students fly in from all over the globe to study in Ireland, attracted due to a number of factors such as cultural diversity, scholarship availability, full-time and part-time work opportunities, and much more. Aside from the undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, students have plenty of opportunities for post-doctoral studies with Irish universities having great research links with other universities in the world.

 

Education System in Ireland

 

If you’re planning to study abroad in Ireland, you will have access to multiple opportunities such as academic excellence, globally recognised qualifications, a dynamic campus culture, rich research & development, and numerous job prospects. For those of you who plan to study in Ireland, here’s a glimpse of the education system for you to gain a broader understanding of how to go about your studies.

 

The Irish education system is quite comparable to that of the United Kingdom, which explains the high level of education it gives to its students. Ireland's educational system is divided into four tiers: -

 

  • Pre-Primary & Primary Education
  • Post-Primary Education
  • Training & Further Education
  • Higher Education

 

Higher Education

 

In Ireland, higher education consists of universities, colleges, and institutes of technology, the majority of which are funded by the Irish government. Ireland has 7 universities, 7 colleges of education, 15 private higher education institutions, and 14 technological institutes (IoT). In Ireland, there are a few more private third-level institutions offering specialised education in fields such as business studies, art and design, law, medicine, and so on.

 

You can study in Ireland by opting for degree programmes, non-degree programmes, and/or, pathway programmes. Irish institutions have made arrangements with pathway providers to give students the additional support and guidance they require to succeed. Higher education in Ireland is divided into 2 semesters - 

 

First Semester: September - December

Second Semester: Late January - May

 

Why Study in Ireland?

 

International students are drawn to Ireland for a variety of reasons. If you've considered studying a master's in Ireland or even a bachelor's for that matter, keep reading to see why so many international students have chosen to study in Ireland.

 

World-Class Education: One of the key reasons that international undergraduate and graduate students choose to study in Ireland is because it is an ideal location for anybody seeking a world-class education. Specifically, world-class education in a forward-thinking, dynamic country with exciting job opportunities.

 

Part-time Employment Opportunities: Typically, institutions in Ireland encourage students to work part-time in order to fund their basic expenses. Courses are typically flexible and developed in such a manner that you can study and work in Ireland at the same time. You can create a part-time plan with flexible course hours. Ireland provides post-work visas to students, allowing them to work in the country for an extended period of time.

 

Low Cost Of Education: Because most institutions are supported by the state, the cost of life and education in Ireland is comparatively low. While tuition costs vary depending on the course and university, the fee is quite low in comparison to other places. Aside from the cheap education costs in Ireland, the normal living expenditures are also reasonable. 

 

Safety: Ireland is a highly safe, pleasant, and welcoming place to stay. Ireland is ranked 12th in the world on the Global Peace Index and 22nd on the World Happiness Index. According to the OECD 2019 Education Study, young Irish people have the world's fourth-highest educational standard.

 

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Top Universities And Global Ranking

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Dublin, Ireland

Cost Of Living

23,844

Tuition Fee

9,173

ranking
Country Rank

#490

Cost Of Living

23,844

Tuition Fee from

9,173

ranking
Country Rank

#6

Dublin City University (DCU) has established a reputation as the Ireland's University of Enterprise through its solid, ongoing relationships with academic, research, and business partners both domestically and abroad. DCU was founded as a university in 1989, and since then, it has expanded quickly in both size and performance. DCU takes great pleasure in providing excellence in all of its endeavours. It is a centre of academic excellence in teaching and research with a student body of nearly 11,500 and almost 2,000 non-Irish students from 116 different countries. The university was chosen as the 2010 Sunday Times University of the Year and is young and energetic. DCU, which is unconventional by nature, broke the mould and introduced fresh ideas to the Irish educational system.


Students must know that the Dublin City University acceptance rate stands at 63% making it one of the Ireland universities with the highest acceptance rate with high quality of education. There are more than 200 majors available at this university, which has five campuses and five primary faculties: engineering and computing, science and health, business, humanities and social sciences, and education. This university has earned the accreditation of prestigious bodies including the Association of MBAs and AACSB. According to the 2020 QS Graduate Employability Rankings, Dublin City University has the highest graduate employment rate in Ireland and is rated #1. DCU uses cutting-edge teaching and research approaches in order to encourage innovation and creativity and to clarify the path to discovery. Through its Graduates Attributes Program, the university aims to cultivate the leaders, businesspeople, and transformational thinkers of tomorrow. In Ireland, DCU was the first institution to integrate paid internships, or INTRA, into its degree programmes, providing students with a distinct advantage over Irish businesses. Students from DCU routinely rank among Ireland's graduates with the highest employment rates. Every student who attends classes at DCU is given individualised attention and every chance to advance their academic, career, and personal goals.

Dublin, Ireland

Cost Of Living

23,844

Tuition Fee

12,850

ranking
Country Rank

#101

Cost Of Living

23,844

Tuition Fee from

12,850

ranking
Country Rank

#1

Trinity, which was established in 1592, is Ireland's top university. A community of academics at the forefront of research and instruction called Trinity's gorgeous campus, located in the heart of Ireland's thriving capital city. Trinity College Dublin provides a singular chance to combine a demanding academic programme with an unmatched variety of cultural, social, and professional activities. It combines historical traditions with internationally renowned centres of research expertise. Trinity students receive a top-notch education at a renowned university for both teaching and research thanks to its over 600-course options, a library with over 6 million volumes, and researchers who draw in €70 million annually in external funding.

 

In several fields, including nanotechnology, information technology, immunology, mathematics, engineering, psychology, politics, and English, Trinity is acknowledged as a top worldwide research centre and a global leader. Over 400 undergraduate courses and postgraduate teaching and research choices in the humanities, engineering, science, humanities, social sciences, and health sciences are offered by three faculties. Presidents and other world leaders, award-winning performers and filmmakers, internationally recognised poets and playwrights, entrepreneurs and business leaders are just a few of the alumni. Graduates also include recipients of Nobel Prizes in literature, science, and medicine. Trinity is dedicated to producing global citizens, whether they are Irish students making a difference abroad or students from more than 120 other nations engaging the local community with their cultural experiences. 17,000 undergraduate and graduate students attend it, representing all the major fields in the humanities and arts as well as business, law, engineering, science, and health sciences. Students must note that the Trinity College Dublin acceptance rate stands at 34% making it a very competitive university to get into. 

 

Trinity is Ireland's top-ranked institution and is acknowledged internationally as Ireland's finest university. It is housed on a stunning campus in the centre of Dublin. The university is renowned for its vibrant social scene and for housing the oldest student organisation in the world. It has more than 120 societies and 48 sports clubs, but the societies that celebrate international holidays, share regional cuisine, discuss world politics, and promote cross-cultural exchange are the most active.

Cork, Ireland

Cost Of Living

14,310

Tuition Fee

10,800

ranking
Country Rank

#298

Cost Of Living

14,310

Tuition Fee from

10,800

ranking
Country Rank

#3

University College Cork (UCC), one of the three Queen's Colleges was established in 1845. With more than 20,000 students enrolled, UCC provides more than 120 degrees in the humanities, law, business, architecture, food, science, and nutritional sciences, dentistry, medicine, nursing, pharmacy, and clinical therapies. The university has received five Irish University of the Year awards.

 

UCC provides students with a top-notch educational experience through the best possible teaching, learning, and research. With a focus on independent study, students have access to various engaging options. Students are encouraged to confront ideas in a supportive environment that provides everyone with the highest standard of pastoral care. The calibre of UCC's academic programmes is unmatched. Its undergraduate and graduate programmes are attended by more than 20,000 students, and its courses are recognised internationally. International students are a vibrant, diverse community of academics, entrepreneurs, and students. 3,300 students from more than 100 nations attend UCC because of its enviable international reputation. Students must note that the University College Cork acceptance rate stands at 41% making it quite challenging to get into. The comprehensive, globally-oriented, research-led university of the south of Ireland, UCC, is located in Cork, the second-largest city in Ireland. It offers a full variety of internationally recognised programmes across all disciplines. Researchers at UCC are at the forefront of high-impact academic research, commercialization, and business partnerships.

 

At UCC, they prioritise both academic rigour and real-world application, and many of the courses incorporate industry input and work placements. It's how they produce graduates that are work ready and global-ready, and it's why it has a high post-graduation employment rate of higher than 90%. The bustling and cutting-edge campus is situated in scenic Cork, where students may blend tradition with a modern way of life. It provides students with all the benefits of a thriving, energetic metropolis. Cork is filled with parks, galleries, shops, restaurants, theatres, and historical structures, so there is never a lack of entertainment opportunities for students. The city and university collaborate effectively to give students a rewarding extracurricular and academic experience. It's the ideal setting for success and excellence.

Dublin, Ireland

Cost Of Living

23,844

Tuition Fee

6,318

ranking
Country Rank

#173

Cost Of Living

23,844

Tuition Fee from

6,318

ranking
Country Rank

#2

University College Dublin, one of Europe's premier research-intensive colleges is ranked among the top 1% of universities worldwide. UCD, known as Ireland's most international institution, with more than 30,000 students, 23% of them are foreigners. University College Dublin offers more than 400 UG and PG programmes to students from 144 different nationalities. In addition, UCD enjoys a unique reputation in India thanks to V.V. Giri, the fourth President of India and a graduate of the university. Programmes available at UCD are more reasonably priced in terms of tuition. Students must note that the University College Dublin acceptance rate stands at 20% which implies how challenging it is to be a part of this university. 

 

The UCD O'Brien Centre for Science, UCD Sutherland School of Law, UCD Lochlan Quinn School of Business, UCD Moore Centre for Business, and UCD Student Center are just a few of the top facilities available at the university's main Dublin campus, which is located on a large parkland estate covering more than 130 hectares. The campus provides students with access to a vibrant, English-speaking capital city in Europe that is among the safest in the world and is known for both its friendliness and its vibrancy. As the largest university in Ireland, UCD accepts its responsibility in helping Ireland, Europe, and the rest of the globe prosper through its vast strength and diversity of subjects. It is a university of the future, built on the traditions of the past, constantly connected, actively involved, and dedicated to a sustainable future based on a healthy biosphere. The goals and key strategic initiatives put in place to carry out UCD's mission and vision for this era are outlined in the university's 2020–2024 Rising to the Future strategy.

 

International students at UCD will appreciate being in a nation with both contemporary cities and a long history and rich culture. Ireland is a great place to pursue undergraduate and graduate studies because it has one of the best educational systems in the world. Graduates from UCD are highly sought after by businesses, NGOs, and governments around the world. As one of the most open and globally linked nations in the world, Ireland presents access to global markets. Due to its geographical location and participation in the EU and Eurozone, it has quick access to global connections.

Galway, Ireland

Cost Of Living

18,120

Tuition Fee

2,570

ranking
Country Rank

#258

Cost Of Living

18,120

Tuition Fee from

2,570

ranking
Country Rank

#4

NUI had three different names. It initially started with Queen’s College Galway in 1849. Later it was changed shortly in 1908 and named the University College Galway or UGG for short. Lastly, in 1997, it was changed again to the National University of Ireland Galway or NUI for short as it is called today. International recognition for NUI Galway's quality led to its inclusion in the top 1% of universities worldwide in the 2017 QS World University Rankings. The only university in Ireland to regularly improve in the most difficult World University Rankings over the last five years is NUI Galway. The University has spent $400 million on new structures and amenities around campus since 2000. The Cairnes Building, Ras Moyola Building, and award-winning Engineering Building, all of which are situated on the north campus, were added in the early 2000s.

 

The University has improved its position year over year in both the QS and Times Higher Education Rankings. After winning the inaugural title in 2002 and again in 2009, NUI Galway has been named "University of the Year 2018" in the Sunday Times University Guide, earning the prestigious honour a record-breaking third time. Over 98% of NUI Galway graduates find employment or continue their education within six months after graduation, making it the top university in Ireland for employability. Galway is Ireland's most varied city, and NUI Galway is one of the country's most internationally oriented universities. Every year, more than 3,000 students from more than 110 nations attend NUI Galway. Students must note that the National University of Ireland Galway acceptance rate stands at 80%. 

 

Galway, which lies on the edge of Europe, has a long history of connecting with the outside world. It frequently ranks among the friendliest cities in the world. To advance teaching and research in the arts, NUI Galway has formed relationships with some of the major cultural institutions in the area. Galway has been named the European Capital of Culture for 2020 because it is known as a location where arts and culture are cherished, reinterpreted, and shared with the globe. The University plays a significant role in this celebration of Galway's distinctive creative energy and the common European culture.

Available courses to study

Ireland's education system is rapidly expanding. Since 2012-13, there has been a 5% growth in the overall number of overseas students. Almost nine out of ten students engaging in research attend universities. English, History, Politics, Management, Engineering, Information Technology, Arts and Humanities, and other major courses are among those provided by Irish educational institutions. Ireland also provides English language classes as well as short courses for students who are interested.

Universities in Ireland offering mass communication and media courses offer students a plethora of career opportunities and help students gain experiences beyond their comfort zone. Building strong communication and interpersonal skills are necessary for this field and Irish universities offer tonnes of opportunities for advancement. Mass communication and media graduates from Ireland often gain great creative and analytical skills that get them ready to work in the media industry.

Students pursuing architecture and real estate courses in Ireland gain an in-depth understanding of the economic, financial, strategic, and legal aspects of real estate development. It is a comprehensive course which goes beyond traditional subjects. With urbanisation and the digital revolution, students acquire up-to-date knowledge and also use innovative tools involved in architecture and real estate, enabling them to become leading professionals in the future.

An accounting and finance degree in Ireland gives you both theoretical and practical exposure to accounting and finance concepts including business, legal taxation, and IT context of work. Irish universities have a strong reputation for the quality of their accounting and financing programmes in addition to their affordability. In partnership with the leading corporates and MNCs, universities in Ireland give students the opportunity to work and gain solid experience in this field with industry leaders and experts to guide them through.

FAQs

Non-EU students who have been given the approval to study in Ireland at a higher education institution listed on the ILEP can work part-time to supplement their income while in the country. During the holidays, students are permitted to work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) or full-time (up to 40 hours per week).

Yes. Universities and colleges provide scholarships to international students. These are granted purely at the discretion of the individual universities, which establish their own eligibility conditions. These scholarships to study in Ireland help students cover a major part of their expenses including a part of their tuition fees, and additional course costs.

Yes. After 5 years of staying in Ireland, a person is entitled to apply for PR. If you are in Ireland as a student, apart from your stay, your academics and experience will be very important in obtaining PR in Ireland.