Ireland
Mar 05, 2024
Study in Ireland
Study in Ireland
The Island of Greenery, Arts, and Safety
Offering a stimulating and very welcoming environment, Ireland has become a top destination for international students. It is quite a developed country, globally connected to different institutions around the world, so international students who choose to study in Ireland can expect to go through a transformative experience enabled by the world-class education and career-enhancing opportunities that they receive in Ireland.
Erudera’s Complete Guide to Studying in Ireland as an International Student
Getting the confidence to study abroad might sometimes be difficult, however, considering the unique experience one gets, it makes it all worth it. Ireland is no short of creating incredible experiences and equipping students with new knowledge and skills that can be used in the job market.
The country is also a great tourist destination, so international students can spend their free time by visiting Killarney National Park, and Blarney Castle in the countryside, visit cities like Dublin, Cork, or stopping in the city of Galway which is one of the jewels of West Ireland.
Facts
Irish surnames that start with “Mac” or “O” mean “Son of…” for the former and “Grandson of” for the latter in Gaelic.
Did you know that more Irish people live abroad than in Ireland?
Ireland is often referred to as the “Emerald Isle” due to its excessive greenery.
Popular Ireland Universities
Reasons to Study in Ireland
High-Quality Education
One of the most important reasons to study in Ireland is the high-quality education that the country offers. Universities like Trinity College Dublin, University College Dublin, University of College Cork, Dublin City University are only a few of the many great higher education institutions in Ireland, which offer a variety of study programs in English.
Innovative Country
Even though Ireland is not a very big country, for years now it has built a reputation as a leading country in Innovation, Research, and Development. Some of the most innovative universities in Europe are located in Ireland. Apart from the well-known universities, the country is also one of the world’s leading countries in exporting computer software.
During and Post-Study Work Opportunities
International students can work in Ireland during and after their studies. During their studies, international students coming from an EU/EEA country do not have any limitations in regards to working. While those coming from a third country can work up to 20 hours per week during school time, and on holiday times up to 40 hours per week. International students can also work after graduation by getting a Critical Skills Employment Permit (Green Card).
Hospitable People
One thing that will most likely impress international students is the welcoming nature of the Irish people, who are some of the friendliest people you will ever meet. Once you arrive in the country, expect to be greeted with warm hellos and made to feel like a local.
Places to Visit
Ireland’s education system quality and its people are not the only good things about the country. As a country steeped in history it has some interesting places to visit and explore like the Cliffs of Moher, Muckross House and Gardens, Ross Castle, Glendalough - the Monastic City, etc.
Safety
With all the nice places that can be visited, of course, one would want to know if the country is safe in order to do all the visiting. In relation to safety, Ireland is considered to be quite a safe country not only for group travelers but also for people traveling alone. To add to this, Ireland also ranked the 13th as one of the most peaceful countries on earth.
Irish Higher Education System
Higher Education in Ireland is provided by institutions such as Universities, Institutes of Technology, and Colleges of Education. Ireland’s universities in total are 8, whereas Institutes of Technology are 14. Each of these institutions offers a wide variety of programs making Ireland a great option for international students.
Another factor that contributes to the benefits of studying in Ireland is the fact that English is one of the official languages. Therefore, courses will be delivered in English. Ireland has world-renowned institutions like Trinity College Dublin (TCD), University College Dublin (UCD), etc, and they have been ranking among the top in Europe. All the more reason to study in Ireland!
Requirements
Specific admission requirements in Ireland differ from the field of study and the university that the student chooses. As each university might not have the same admission requirements, students are advised to check the university’s website for details on requirements. However, some general requirements include a Diploma or school certificate, transcripts, letters of recommendation, letter of motivation, proof of funds. All these documents should be officially translated and submitted in English.
All programs in Irish institutions are offered in English, therefore international students whose first language is not English should submit proof of language proficiency. For postgraduate students who have completed their Bachelor’s studies in English, proof of language proficiency is not required.
Fees and Costs
Tuition fees in Ireland depend on three factors: what level of study you are pursuing, where you come from, and which university you are going to apply to. Tuition fees for undergraduate and postgraduate studies (Non-EU) range between €9,850 ($11,955) to €55,000 ($66,755). Undergraduate studies for EU students are free of charge, whereas postgraduate studies usually cost from €3,000 ($3,640) to €30,000 ($36,408).
A range of factors impacts the living costs of international students studying in Ireland. These factors include the type of accommodation, transport, and the city students choose. An estimated amount regarding living costs of international students for nine months, excluding tuition fees ranges between €10,000 ($12,136) to €15,000 ($18,202).
How to Apply
The application process to an Irish university depends on the degree you are aiming to pursue (undergraduate or postgraduate), and the country you come from (EU or non-EU). Students coming from an EU country apply through the Central Applications Office (CAO). Whereas, students coming from third world countries can apply directly to the university of their choice by following the instructions on the university website.
For postgraduate studies, the application process is the same for the EU as well as for non-EU-students. International students should apply directly to the university, or through the Postgraduate Application Centre, which is not a very complicated process.
Accommodation
One thing that should be considered as early as possible when deciding to study abroad is accommodation. In Ireland, students can choose to live on campus, private accommodation (student apartments), private rentals, or live with a host family. On-campus accommodation is consistently on demand, therefore it can be difficult to find a spot. It can also be quite expensive.
For students who prefer to be more independent, renting an apartment with other students is also an option. This type of accommodation can be found by researching on different online platforms. Living with a host family is also a great option since most of the time students are provided with morning and evening meals, and also you will not have to pay for utilities like heat, light, etc.
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