Study Abroad Universities Study in Ireland

Study in Ireland:

Top Universities, Courses, Scholarships, Course Fees and Job Opportunities

Study Abroad Team 13/01/2025

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Study in Ireland - Highlights

Ireland presents a compelling option for higher education with its population of approximately 4.9 million people. The country has7 public universities, 14 institutes of technology, and several private colleges, offering a diverse range of educational opportunities. The commitment of €2 million from the Irish government to facilitate students from Northern Ireland studying in the Republic of Ireland underscores the nation's dedication to encouraging international education partnerships.

Additionally, with an average annual salary of €37,500 (approximately INR 31.3 lakhs), Ireland offers promising career prospects for graduates, making it an attractive destination for those seeking both academic excellence and financial stability.

Core Facts About Ireland

Education in Ireland

Universities and Colleges 28

Indian Students in Ireland (2023) 7000+

Post-Study Work Permit Yes

Permanent Residence Yes (conditions apply)

University / College Stats

Students Placed 6000+

Primary Language Irish, English

Popular Course Computer Science

Scholarships 60

Why Study in Ireland?

Consistently excelling on global university rankings, Ireland is ranked 2nd in the Global Peace Index with a score of 1.303. Studying in Ireland offers a unique opportunity for students to immerse themselves in a rich cultural heritage while benefiting from a high standard of education recognized globally. Studying in Ireland provides you with various options from short-term study abroad to specialized graduate courses.

World-Class Education System: Ireland is home to several globally ranked universities that offer a wide range of programs in various disciplines. These universities in Ireland are known for their rigorous academics and leading-edge research facilities. Universities like Trinity College Dublin and University College Dublin rank consistently among the top universities worldwide, offering programs that are both challenging and comprehensive.
English-speaking country: Ireland is one of the few English-speaking countries in Europe, offering a smooth transition for students who are proficient in English, eliminating the language barriers often faced in other European countries making study abroad in Ireland feasible for Indian students.
Job opportunities: Ireland’s economy is home to numerous global corporations, especially in the technology and pharmaceutical sectors. Companies such as Google, Facebook, and Pfizer have significant operations here, providing students with internship and employment opportunities post-graduation.
Rich Cultural Heritage: Beyond academics, Ireland is known for its rich cultural heritage, historical landmarks, and vibrant arts scene. This enriches the student experience, offering plenty of learning opportunities outside the classroom.
Supportive Environment for International Students: The Irish government and educational institutions offer various supports for international students, including orientation programs, academic assistance, and health and wellness resources.

Here are the other few reasons why Ireland is considered one of the study-abroad destinations for Indian students.

High Satisfaction Rate: According to a recent survey, 90% of international students report being satisfied with their living and study experience in Ireland.
Educational Excellence: Over 35% of Ireland’s population holds a higher education degree, reflecting the country’s commitment to education.
Growing International Community: The number of international students in Ireland has increased by 45% over the last five years, with a significant number coming from India.

Top Universities in Ireland

Numerous prestigious colleges that rank among the best in the world are located in Ireland. Universities in Ireland are known for their dedication to academic achievement, research innovation, and industry-focused teaching, as per the QS World University Rankings 2025. With their well-known educational programs, diversified campus life, and solid industry ties—especially in areas like technology, business, health sciences, and engineering—these colleges draw students from all over the world. Below is the list of top universities in Ireland based on world rankings and Ireland university rankings.

Universities	City	World Rankings 2025	Ireland University Rankings 2025
Trinity College Dublin, University of Dublin	Dublin	87	1
University College Dublin	Dublin	171	2
National University of Ireland	Galway	251-300	3
Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland	Dublin	201-250	3
University College Cork	Cork	301-350	4-5
Dublin City University	Dublin	401-500	6-7
University of Limerick (UL)	Limerick	501-600	8-9
Maynooth University	Maynooth	601-800	10-12
Technological University Dublin (TU Dublin)	Dublin	801-1000	13-14
Dublin Institute of Technology	Dublin	Not Ranked	Not Ranked
Cork Institute of Technology	Cork	Not Ranked	Not Ranked
Limerick Institute of Technology (LIT)	Limerick	Not Ranked	Not Ranked
Waterford Institute of Technology (WIT)	Waterford	Not Ranked	Not Ranked
Athlone Institute of Technology	Athlone	Not Ranked	Not Ranked

Popular Courses in Ireland for Indian Students

Ireland is one of the best destinations for studying abroad for Indian students due to its top universities, 2-year post-study work visas, and affordable 1-year master's program. By choosing to study in Ireland, students can gain a globally recognized education and experience a different culture, setting a strong foundation for their future careers. Indian students are increasingly enrolling in a variety of courses in Ireland. Indian students constitute a significant portion of this demographic, with approximately 4,735 Indian students studying in Ireland during the 2022-2023 academic year. The majority of international students in Ireland are enrolled in the fields of Business, Administration, and Law, with 21.5% of the total international students.

Here are some of the most popular courses in Ireland for Indian students Include:

Business Analytics: With the rise of big data, courses in business analytics equip students with skills to interpret complex data sets, aiding strategic decision-making. Institutions like University College Dublin (UCD) and Trinity College Dublin offer specialized programs in business analytics, international business, and entrepreneurship.
Computer Science and IT: Ireland's thriving tech industry offers ample opportunities for graduates in software development, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Universities such as Dublin City University (DCU) and University College Cork (UCC) provide cutting-edge programs in data analytics, artificial intelligence, and software engineering.
Engineering: Specializations in mechanical, civil, and electronic engineering are popular, aligning with Ireland's industrial growth. Institutes like the University of Limerick and Cork Institute of Technology offer programs in civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering.
Pharmaceutical Sciences: Home to numerous pharmaceutical companies, Ireland provides excellent prospects for students in this field. Trinity College Dublin, University College Dublin, and University College Cork are the notable colleges for this field.
Finance and Accounting: Courses in finance and accounting are in demand, given Ireland's status as a global financial hub. Trinity College Dublin, University College Dublin, and Dublin City University are the top universities for finance and accounting.

Course	Tuition Fees (EUR)	Tuition Fees (INR)
Business Analytics	€19,200 – €21,300	₹16.8 lakhs – ₹18.6 lakhs
Computer Science and IT	€14,000 – €18,000	₹12.2 lakhs – ₹15.7 lakhs
Engineering	€12,000 – €17,000	₹10.5 lakhs – ₹14.8 lakhs
Pharmaceutical Sciences	€15,000 – €22,000	₹13.1 lakhs – ₹19.2 lakhs
Finance and Accounting	€18,000 – €20,000	₹15.7 lakhs – ₹17.4 lakhs

Education system in Ireland

Ireland's education system is structured into three primary levels: primary, secondary, and higher education, each designed to provide a comprehensive and inclusive learning experience.

Primary Education

Primary education in Ireland is compulsory for children aged 6 to 12. The curriculum emphasizes literacy, numeracy, and social development, laying a strong foundation for future learning. Primary schools are predominantly state-funded and managed by local boards of management.

Post Primary Education

Secondary education caters to students aged 12 to 18 and is divided into two cycles:

Junior Cycle (12-15 years): This cycle culminates in the Junior Certificate examination, assessing students' proficiency across various subjects.
Senior Cycle (15-18 years): Students can choose from different programs, including the traditional Leaving Certificate, the Leaving Certificate Vocational Programme (LCVP), or the Leaving Certificate Applied (LCA). The Leaving Certificate is crucial for university admission.

Higher Education

Higher education in Ireland includes universities, institutes of technology, and colleges offering a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs.

Study in Ireland Requirements for Indian Students - Application Process, Eligibility, and Deadlines

Undergraduate Programs Application Process

To apply for undergraduate programs, the candidates must determine whether they are EU or non-EU applicants.
The EU application can apply for undergraduate programs through the Central Applications Office (CAO).
The non-EU applicants applying for undergraduate programs must apply through the university’s website.

Postgraduate Programs Application Process

Students applying for postgraduate programs must apply through the university website.
Some universities that allow students to apply through the Postgraduate Applications Centre (PAC) are Dublin City University, Maynooth University, Waterford Institute of Technology, National University of Ireland, Cork Institute of Technology, Mary Immaculate College, Health Service Extensive Institute of Technology, and 3U Partnership, Greater Dublin University.
The cost of application and the deadlines might vary based on the programs chosen.

Ireland Intakes

Recommended Intake - AUTUMN (September)

Universities in Ireland offer two main intakes for International students aspiring to study in Ireland. They are the autumn intake and spring intake. The timeline of this intake can be stated as follows,

Autumn Intake

The autumn intake starts in September and ends in May.
Autumn intake is considered the primary intake as many universities offer a wide range of courses during this intake.
The application deadline for autumn intake is June.

Spring Intake

The application for spring intake will be open till September or October.
This is not the primary intake for most universities.
The classes of this spring intake start in January or February.

Intake	Start Month	Application Deadline	Programs Offered
Autumn	September	January to April	Most undergraduate and postgraduate programs
Spring	January	July to November	Limited postgraduate programs

Cost of Living in Ireland for Indian Students

The approximate cost of living in Ireland for Indian students varies based on factors like the standard of accommodation, lifestyle choices, and more. However, the approximate cost of living in Ireland for the students studying abroad in Ireland is,

Private complex accommodation	€250 – €350 weekly
On-campus accommodation	€250- €500 weekly
Private rental house share	€500- €1500 weekly
Transportation	€70- €80 per month
Food	€150- €300 per month
Mobile Recharge	€25- €35 per month
Electricity and garbage	€65- €130 per month
Internet Plans	€40- €70 monthly

Cost of Studying in Ireland for Indian Students

The cost of studying in Ireland for Indian students might vary based on factors like the type of university, location of the university, choice of course, level of course, and more. However, the approximate cost of studying in Ireland for Indian students is listed below for undergraduate, postgraduate, and Doctoral programs. Courses like arts and humanities are cheaper, while subjects such as engineering, medicine, and business management are quite expensive. If you wish to study abroad at the postgraduate level in Ireland, the tuition fee is higher and costs depending on the program.

In addition to tuition fees, the cost of studying in Ireland for Indianstudentsincludesliving expenses, which typically range from €7,000 to €12,000 per year, depending on lifestyle and location.

Program Level	Average Annual Fee (EUR)	Average Annual Fee (INR)
Undergraduate	€9,800 – €25,000	₹8.6 lakhs – ₹21.7 lakhs
Postgraduate	9,550 – €34,500	₹8.3 lakhs – ₹30.1 lakhs
Doctoral	€9,500 – €35,000	₹8.3 lakhs – ₹30.3 lakhs

Scholarships for Indian Students in Ireland

Ireland offers numerous scholarship opportunities for Indian students to study abroad. Some of the most popular scholarships offered to Indian students studying in Ireland are,

Ireland Fellows Program- This fully funded scholarship covers travel, accommodation, tuition, and health insurance.
University College Dublin Global Excellence Graduate Scholarships- This scholarship supports tuition fees. The approximate amount of this scholarship is around €5,000 - €25,000.
Dublin City University International Merit Scholarships- This scholarship supports tuition fees. The approximate scholarship amount of this scholarship is €2,000 - €4,000.
Cork Institute of Technology International Student Scholarships- This scholarship covers tuition fees and accommodation. The approximate scholarship amount of this scholarship is up to€1,500.
Government Of Ireland (GOI) Scholarships- This scholarship covers stipend expenses, health insurance, books & supplies, travel, and tuition fees. The scholarship amount of this scholarship varies.
Trinity College Dublin Scholarship- This scholarship covers the stipend, research expenses, and tuition fees. The scholarship amount of this scholarship varies.
National College of Ireland Scholarships- This scholarship covers the tuition fee and living expenses. The maximum amount that this scholarship covers is Up to €2,000.
Maynooth University International Scholarship- This scholarship covers the tuition fees and living expenses. The scholarship amount for this scholarship ranges from €2,000 to €5,000.

Student Visa in Ireland

Cost of Visa Application	€ 60
When to Apply?	Four months before the course begins
Visa Processing Time	8 weeks

Documents Required for Visa Application in Ireland

The students aspiring to study in Ireland must apply for a student visa. Visa can be applied through the official website of the Irish Immigration Service. Some of the documents that the students are requested to submit while applying for an Ireland student visa are,

Duly filled application form with the appropriate fee
Two copies of passport-size photographs which are not more than six months old
Current passport with all the previous passports.
The current passport must be valid for at least 12 months after arrival.
Proof of enrolling on a privately funded course in any university or institution in Ireland
Proof accounting for any educational gaps if applicable.
Proof of college fee payment
Proof of evidence to show that you have the academic ability to follow the chosen course
Proof of evidence for English language proficiency
Private medical insurance and previous visa refusals
Evidence of financial proof and summary of finances for study visa application

Required Entrance Exams in Ireland

Students aspiring to study in Ireland must clear certain entrance exams to secure admission. Some of the most popular entrance exams that students must clear with the approximate required score are listed,

TOEFL- 80-92
IELTS- 6.5-7.0 with an overall score of 6 in each band
Duolingo test- 95-120
PTE Academic- 55-65

Work Opportunities in Ireland

Studying in Ireland offered various job prospects for international students. Ireland has a Critical Skills Employment Permit that allows and encourages students to work in an occupation with a shortage of skills. Some of the most sought-after and in-demand job opportunities in Ireland are listed,

Science & Engineering- Chemical Engineers, Energy Engineers, Electrical Engineers, Biomedical Engineers.
Healthcare & Social Care- Nurses, Opticians, Pharmacists, Doctors, and Radiologists.
Transport and Logistics- Supply Chain Analysts, Transport Managers, and Logistics.
Business and Finance- Financial Advisers, Accountants, Risk and Compliance Professionals, and Business Intelligence Analysts.
Hospitality- Chefs
ICT- Software Developers, Programmers, Data Analysts, App Developers, and IT Support Specialists.

Job Roles (Top 5)	Salary
District Court Judge	€80K EURO - €150K EURO
Chief Executive Officer	Above $336+K EURO
Law/Accounting Firm Partner	€250K+EURO
Chief Operating Officer (COO)	€150K EURO - €250K EURO
Automation Engineer	€60K EURO - €120K EURO

FAQs

1. What are the top universities in Ireland for international students?
Ireland is home to several esteemed institutions, including Trinity College Dublin, University College Dublin, and University College Cork, which are all recognized for their academic excellence and research contributions.

2. What is the cost of studying in Ireland?
Tuition fees for international students vary depending on the program and institution. On average, undergraduate programs range from €9,850 to €55,000 per year, while master's programs range from €9,950 to €34,500 annually.

3. Are there scholarships available for international students in Ireland?
Yes, numerous scholarships are available, such as the Global Excellence Postgraduate Scholarships and the University of Delhi Graduate Scholarship, which can cover up to 50% of tuition fees.

4. What are the English language requirements for studying in Ireland?
International students are required to demonstrate proficiency in English through tests like IELTS or TOEFL. Specific score requirements vary by institution and program.

5. Do I need a visa to study in Ireland?
Non-EEA (European Economic Area) students must obtain a student visa to study in Ireland. The application process includes providing proof of acceptance into a recognized institution and evidence of sufficient financial resources.

6. What is the cost of living in Ireland for students?
The cost of living varies by city. Dublin, being the capital, has higher living expenses, while cities like Galway, Cork, and Limerick offer more affordable options.

7. Can international students work while studying in Ireland?

Yes, international students are permitted to work up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions and up to 40 hours per week during the summer months (June to August) and mid-December to mid-January.

8. What are the post-study work opportunities in Ireland?
Ireland offers a two-year post-study work visa for non-EEA graduates, allowing them to gain professional experience in the country after completing their studies.

9. Is health insurance mandatory for international students in Ireland?
Yes, international students are required to have private health insurance for the duration of their stay in Ireland. This is often a condition for obtaining a student visa.

10. What are the application deadlines for universities in Ireland?

Application deadlines vary by institution and program. It's advisable to check the specific deadlines for your chosen course and allow ample time for visa processing.

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