Study in Ireland – Top Colleges & Universities, Cost, Eligibility & Scholarships

Ireland is one of the most popular study abroad destinations in Europe. Its universities offer first-rate education in a traditional, yet modern setting. Thousands of study programs at over two dozen schools attract international students from around the world. Ireland is home to universities that are in the top 1% of research institutes worldwide. Ireland has one of the best education systems in the world with world-class research opportunities in the leading programs. It is also one of the friendliest and safest countries in the world for international students. Now, let us go deep into the details that make you decide to Study in Ireland.

General Eligibility Rules

The first requirement to study in Ireland is to have a Visa. And other documentations required are:
• Academic certificates, fully attested
• Two reference letters from professors who taught you most recently
• One reference letter from your previous employer
• Statement of purpose
• Updated CV
• 4 certificates of your extracurricular activities

VISA Procedure

For obtaining a student visa, the following needs to be agreed upon and submitted while applying:
• Certificates proving academic track record
• Proof of full payment for courses
• No state benefits
• Permitted to stay for a maximum of only 7 years
• A private medical insurance

Cost of Living

To make it as clear as possible, the living cost in Ireland will differ based on the place you decide to live, the kind of accommodation that you opted for and finally the lifestyle that you choose. The estimates reveal that, on average, a student incurs costs between €7,000 and €11,000 per annum.

Top & Featured Universities

Ireland is well-known for having seven public universities that are ranked amongst the world’s top 650 2015-16 QS World University Rankings. It also has 7 private sector colleges. The five highest-ranked Ireland universities include Trinity College Dublin, University College Dublin, University College Cork, National University of Ireland Galway and Dublin City University.

Scholarships Available

There are numerous scholarships available from a number of sources such as Irish higher education institutions, Government of Ireland and other organizations, for the international students. Some of the popular ones include, General Study Abroad Scholarships, Fulbright Scholarships, Government of Ireland Scholarships, National College of Ireland Scholarships, HBCU Scholarship, and Ireland Homecoming Study Scholarships.

Best Courses to Study in Ireland:

Courses in Ireland universities are specifically designed to meet the study requirements of international students. The Irish universities offer courses to students that help them to become successful in the international market by providing them with the up-to-date and latest knowledge and skills necessary. The course programs invoke knowledge in the students through lectures, simulations, group discussions, seminars, practical applications, coursework, and projects. The Best Subjects to study in Ireland include, English Language and Literature, Politics, History, Veterinary Science, Biological Sciences and others. With such a good infrastructure and wide range of courses offered it is always a wise decision to Study in Ireland.

The Average Salary that a student with Irish education can earn is sure to be amongst the top drawn salaries in the international market. So, for students planning to give a real boost to their career Study in Ireland can make a good option.

The Ireland Government website www.educationinireland.com clarifies any doubts, and also contains a FAQ section to provide you with all the details about studying in Ireland.

Study in Ireland- Top Study Programs

  • Information Technology (including Cloud Computing)
  • Applied Sciences – Telecommunications, Life Sciences, Food Sciences, Nanotechnology
  • Environmental Studies (including Green and Sustainable Engineering)
  • History
  • Literature

Top Universities

  • Trinity College Dublin
  • University College Cork
  • University College Dublin
  • Dublin City University
  • Dublin Institute of Technology
  • National University of Ireland, Galway
  • University of Limerick
  • National University of Ireland, Maynooth

FAQ Section:

Question: Is it free to study in Ireland?
Answer: EU/EEA students can study for free

The undergraduate degree courses in Ireland are, usually, free for citizens of Ireland/EU. Nationality, immigration status, residence and course requirements are also criteria that can qualify you for a tuition-free university degree

Question: Is it good to study in Ireland?

Answer: Ireland is one of the few rare countries in the world that has managed to preserve its natural beauty despite its continuous progress and development. This makes Ireland a great study abroad destination for students who would like a combination of urban luxuries and the great outdoors.

Question: Is Ireland good for international students?

Answer: The Global Peace Index ranked it as the 12th “most peaceful country” in 2013. Ireland is a highly developed democracy with a modern economy. Richness of culture, breathtaking scenery and friendly people make it an ideal study destination for any international student.

Question: Can I stay in Ireland after study?

Answer: 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.

Question: Can I study in Ireland without ielts?

Answer: It is possible to get a student visa for Ireland without the IELTS score. Irish universities widely accept IELTS score, along with TOEFL, or PTE or OET too. Students related to the medical field like a doctor or nurse can go for Occupational Education Test which is these days accepted in Ireland for higher studies.

Question: Can I work while studying in Ireland?

Answer: International students who meet the above conditions can take up work in Ireland. Otherwise, international students in Ireland can work part-time during their studies (up to 20 hours per week during term time and up to 40 hours per week in holiday periods).