Ireland is one of the most affordable countries to study a higher education degree. Ireland is a welcoming country for international students and Irish education institutes offer good value for the money. Top universities also offer post-graduation work options and opportunities, making it an excellent destination for an international student.
Reasons Why Ireland Stands Out as a Study Abroad Destination
Academic Reputation and Recognition World-Wide
Irish research ranks amongst the top 1 per cent globally in 18 different fields, ensuring all Irish universities fall in the top 3 per cent worldwide. Their education system is one of the best in the world. Ireland is dedicated to and values innovation and excellence in education, and these numbers reflect that.
Progression of Irish Universities 2025
- Trinity College Dublin: 87th in QS World Rankings
- University College Dublin: 126th, remaining in the top tier
- Irish Universities having 6 in the world top 1000
English Proficiency
Ireland, along with the United States and the United Kingdom, forms one of the few mostly English only speaking countries accessible to international students. This allows Irish students to adapt to the society easily. Also, facilitates better preparation for international and global employment in the world.
Ireland's Position in Europe
Ireland serves as a bridge to the UK and mainland Europe. This strategic positioning provides students unparalleled learning and travelling opportunities. Ireland also shares cultural, educational, and economic ties with the US, expanding students prospects even further.
Safety and Friendliness
Ireland was voted by Lonely Planet as the friendliest country in 2008 and 2010, and, in 2013, it was ranked 12th in the Global Peace Index. The combination of safety and friendliness makes Ireland the best place for international students and allows them to flourish in their studies whilst growing personally.
Step-By-Step Process for Applying to Irish Colleges and Universities
Phase 1: Finding and Choosing Programmes
Duration: Start 12-18 months before the date you wish to enrol.
- Define your area of interest: Common choices include Technology, Business, Engineering, Medicine, and Humanities
- Research your preferred institutions: Look at the rankings, location, field of study, and campus infrastructure
- Look into the requirements for the specific programme: Most have academic and English language benchmarks
- Analyse the fees: Different institutions and programmes have varying tuition fees
Phase 2: Meeting Academic Standards
Undergraduate Programmes:
- Completion of secondary schooling comparable to Irish Leaving Certificate
- Minimum grades of C level or above
- Some programmes have specific subject requirements
Postgraduate Programmes:
- Hold a qualified bachelor's degree (Level 7 AQF) or its international equivalent
- Attain a minimum 2:2 or equivalent GPA
- Have a suitable academic background related to the field of study
Phase 3: English Language Skills
Standards:
- IELTS: 6.0-6.5 overall band, individual bands no less than 5.5-6.0
- TOEFL: 60-90 overall for the internet based test
- PTE Academic: 50-60 overall
- Cambridge English Advanced (CAE): 169-176 overall
Other Options:
- English Language Intensive Courses (ELICOS)
- English for Academic Purposes (EAP)
- Preparatory programmes for students needing more foundational work
Phase 4: Preparing English Language Documents
Document submission:
- English Application Form
- Transcripts and academic certificates
- Proficiency in English: test results
- Statement of purpose: personal statement or motivation letter
- Recommendation letters: 2-3
- Current passport: copy
- Resume or CV
Additional Requirements (if relevant):
- Portfolio: for creative courses
- Certificates of relevant employment
- Propose a research project: for research degrees
- Letters explaining gap years
Phase 5: Submission of Applications
Methods of Application:
- University Website: Direct application through specific university websites
- Central Application Office (CAO): for undergraduate studies at most universities
- Education Agent: enrolled through an agent who ensures smooth guidance throughout
Important Dates:
- Undergraduate: 1st February (CAO submissions)
- Postgraduate: varies with universities, usually March to July
- Additional applications: later submissions may be accepted in April if slots are unfilled
Requirements and Procedures for Student Visa
Introduction to Student Visa of Ireland
There are two categories of student visa in Ireland:
C Study Visa:
- Covering a period of less than 3 months
- Does not allow post-study employment
- Faster to process
D Study Visa:
- Covering a period of greater than 3 months
- Most associated with degree courses
- Allows for employment after studies
Visa Application Process from Ireland Step by Step
Step 1: Identify the Visa Requirements
Countries with no visa requirement: Citizens of EU/EEA countries and a few others do not need visas. Other countries: most non-EU countries require a D Study Visa
Students from countries that need a visa must demonstrate the ability to access €10,000 per year in funds for the duration of their studies. Students not from visa-requiring countries must demonstrate access to €4,500 for each year of study upon arrival in Ireland.
Step 2: Collect Necessary Documents
Required Documents:
- Current passport (must present at least 12 months validity from the date of arrival)
- 2 passport-size photos
- Acceptance letter from Irish educational body
- Receipt for the payment of the course (for those exceeding value of €6,000, the minimum course fee is €6,000)
- Financial statement showing proof of monetary aid (at least €10,000 per annum)
- Medical insurance
Step 3: Submission of Applications Online
- Sign up with AVATS (online visa application system)
- Fill out the detailed application form
- Submit all the required documents
- Visa application payment
- Printing, signing, and submission of summary form with supporting documents
Visa Application Fees for the Year 2025:
- Single entry visa: €60
- Multiple entry visa: €100
- Transit visa: €25
Step 4: Collection of Biometric Information
As part of the application process, most applicants submit biometric data of fingerprints and a photo.
Step 5: Processing and Making a Decision
Processing Time:
- Standard processing: 8 weeks after submission of all documents
- Business visas: 10 working days (upon processing at the embassy)
- Peak times are busier and can take longer
Cost of Studying and Living in Ireland
Tuition of the 2025 Academic Year:
Undergraduate:
EU/EEA students:
- Most undergraduate degrees: FREE (covered by Higher Education Authority)
- Student contribution fee: Maximum €3000 annually
Non EU/EEA Students:
- Arts and Humanities: €9,850-€15,000 per annum
- Sciences and Engineering: €14,500-€25,000 per annum
- Medicine: €30,000-€55,000 per annum
Graduate Programmes:
EU/EEA students:
- Master's degrees: €3,000-€30,000 per annum
- PhD programmes: €3,000-€6,000 per annum
Non EU/EEA Students:
- Master's degrees: €9,500-€35,000 per annum
- MBA Programmes: €15,000-€45,000 per annum
- PhD Programmes: €9,500-€20,000 per annum
Estimated Living Costs
Cost of living in Ireland are slightly above the European average, you should budget between €550 - €1,000 per month.
Monthly Living Expenses:
Dublin (Capital City):
- Accommodation: €800-€1,500
- Food: €300-€500
- Transport: €100-€150
- Personal and Miscellaneous Expenses: €200-€400
- Having all expenses combined: €1,400-€2,550 per month
Other Cities (Cork, Galway, Limerick):
- Accommodation: €500-€1,200
- Food: €250-€400
- Transport: €80-€150
- Personal and Miscellaneous Expenses: €150-€350
- Having all expenses combined: €980-€2,070 per month
Conclusion
Ireland stands out for its unrivalled academic offerings, rich cultural heritage, and career opportunities situated in the heart of Europe. Ireland's English-speaking world-class universities, alongside its burgeoning international student population, make the country a prime candidate for ambitious students seeking global opportunities.
Select Ireland if you appreciate:
- Educational qualifications that are recognised and respected globally
- English-speaking academic environment
- Good prospects for employment after graduation
- Central Europe location with good access to other countries
- A friendly and multicultural society
- Relatively low tuition fee compared to other English-speaking countries
Ireland's education system opens a plethora of opportunities that extend beyond the degree itself.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the English language proficiency requirement for Irish universities?
Most universities require an IELTS score between 6.0 and 6.5 with no individual score lower than 5.5 to 6.0. Some courses have more specific and higher requirements, so these scores are not universal to all programmes and universities.
Can students work alongside studying in Ireland?
Yes. Approved students are able to work part-time 20 hours a week during term time and 40 hours during the holiday season, which is from June to September, and December 15th to January 15th.
What is the cost of studying in Ireland?
Tuition fees for undergraduates from outside the EU can range from €9,850 to €55,000 per year. Monthly living expenses are estimated between €980 and €2,550, depending on the student's location in Ireland and their lifestyle.
What are the requirements for work after graduation?
Under the Third Level Graduate Programme, bachelor's graduates can stay for 1 year after graduation, and master's graduates for 2 years. This offers significant routes to gaining permanent employment.
What is the timeline for applying to universities in Ireland?
For undergraduates applying through CAO, the deadline is February 1st. For postgraduates, deadlines are more flexible, ranging from March to July. It is advisable to start planning applications 12 to 18 months ahead.
