Douglas Olsen
Ireland is a popular study destination for international students due to its high-quality education, vibrant culture, and promising career opportunities. Ranked in the top 1% of higher education institutions worldwide, University College Dublin (UCD) exemplifies Ireland's academic excellence, attracting over 10,000 international students from 152 countries. Beyond UCD, Ireland offers a range of study programmes at over two dozen schools, providing a progressive and innovative learning environment. The country's safety, friendliness, and welcoming nature make it an ideal place for international students to pursue their academic goals and immerse themselves in Ireland's rich history, stunning scenery, and vibrant cities like Dublin. Additionally, with its strong economic growth and presence of multinational companies, Ireland offers graduates excellent career prospects, further enhanced by the stay-back visa option. However, students should be mindful of the high demand for accommodation and potential scams when planning their studies in Ireland.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Safety | Ranked 3rd in the Global Peace Index |
| Happiness | Ranked 13th in the World Happiness Index |
| Education standard | Young Irish people have the fourth-highest standard of education in the world, according to the OECD 2019 Education report |
| Innovation | Ranked 17th in the Bloomberg Innovation Index 2021 |
| Top companies | Home to five of Forbes Top 10 companies: Apple, Google, Alphabet, Amazon, and Samsung |
| University rankings | University College Dublin (UCD) is ranked in the top 1% of higher education institutions worldwide and is number one in Ireland for graduate employability |
| Scholarships | A wide variety of scholarships are available for international students, including the Beijing Foreign Studies University (BFSU) Scholarship and the Ireland Fellows programme |
| Stay-back visa option | Graduates can avail of either one or two-year stay-back visas to pursue careers in Ireland |
| Cost of living | Varies based on location, accommodation, transport, and personal lifestyle |
| Accommodation | High demand for student accommodation; recommended to organise before departure and be aware of scams |
| Culture | Rich history, stunning scenery, beautiful walks, ancient culture and architecture, museums, art galleries, gourmet food, coffee culture, pubs with traditional live music |
| Language | While Irish Gaelic is an official language, everyone in Ireland communicates in English |
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What You'll Learn
Ireland's higher education institutions
Ireland is one of the most popular study abroad destinations in Europe, with thousands of study programmes at over two dozen schools attracting international students from around the world. The country offers a first-rate education in a traditional yet modern setting. Ireland is ranked 17th in the world for innovation, and its young people have the fourth-highest standard of education in the world.
There are 18 universities in Ireland, with seven establishments of higher education ranked among the top 500 universities worldwide by the Times Higher Education Supplement in 2023. These include the University of Dublin, better known as Trinity College Dublin, the four constituent universities of the National University of Ireland, two universities established in 1989, five technological universities formed by the amalgamation of Institutes of Technology, and a professional medical institution.
University College Dublin (UCD) is ranked in the top 1% of higher education institutions worldwide. UCD is number one in Ireland for graduate employability, and 10,000 of its 38,000 students are international, hailing from 152 different countries. UCD offers a wide variety of scholarships and awards for international students, including Global Excellence Scholarships based on academic merit.
The Irish Universities Association (IUA) offers several scholarships for international students, including the Beijing Foreign Studies University (BFSU) Scholarship, funded by the China Scholarship Council, and the Choctaw-Ireland Scholarship, funded by the Irish Government.
In addition to public higher education institutions (universities, colleges, and institutes of technology), there are also private higher education institutions in Ireland. All study programmes offered by private institutions must be approved by the Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI).
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Job prospects and stay-back visas
Ireland has one of the fastest-growing economies in the EU, and its knowledge economy status makes it an attractive prospect for international students. The country is home to several large tech companies, including Facebook, Apple, Google, and Microsoft, and its job market provides equal opportunities for both international and national students.
Ireland offers a diverse range of job opportunities for international students, with some of the most in-demand jobs being in the healthcare, business and finance, and IT sectors. The hospitality and tourism industry in Ireland is also booming.
For students who wish to work while studying in Ireland, there are a few things to keep in mind. The number of hours a student can work per week depends on their visa status. Students with Stamp 2 permission can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and up to 40 hours outside of term. Students with Stamp 2A permission are not allowed to work. Non-EU/EEA students with Stamp 2 permission to remain are allowed to take up casual employment during the holidays.
International students can also take up internships during their studies, which can provide valuable work experience and enhance their career prospects. After completing their studies, international students can take advantage of Ireland's stay-back visa options, which allow them to extend their stay and gain valuable work experience. The Third Level Graduate Scheme allows non-EU/EEA students at NFQ level 9 and above to stay back for up to 24 months.
To work in Ireland, students will need to apply for a Personal Public Service (PPS) Number, which is a taxation number required to access employment, benefits, and public services. Additionally, students may need to apply for a work permit and ensure they meet the minimum English language requirements.
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Cost of living and accommodation
The cost of living for international students in Ireland can vary depending on location and lifestyle choices. On average, students can expect to spend between 550 and 1,000 EUR per month. This includes accommodation, food, utilities, transportation, and social expenses.
For accommodation, students have several options, including on-campus dormitories, shared apartments, private studios, or homestays with Irish families. On-campus accommodation is typically more expensive and in high demand, with prices ranging from 200 to 300 EUR per month, while off-campus options can be more budget-friendly. Rent for a shared room can start at 400 EUR per month, while a private room in a shared apartment can cost upwards of 850 EUR per month.
Students can save money by choosing shared accommodation or locations outside of major cities like Dublin. University websites and portals often provide information on accommodation options and average rental prices in the area. It is recommended that students calculate their estimated income and expenses and budget accordingly, taking into account one-time start-up costs such as kitchen items and bedding.
Food costs can vary depending on individual choices. Students can expect to spend around 70 to 100 EUR per week on meals, including some on-campus or restaurant meals. Grocery shopping can cost between 250 and 350 EUR per month, with cheaper options available at supermarkets like Aldi, Lidl, and Tesco. Students can also take advantage of discounts at certain shops and restaurants by presenting their student cards.
Transportation costs can vary based on location and mode of transport. Public transport in Ireland can be expensive compared to other European cities, with a 30-day bus ticket in Dublin costing around 160 EUR. However, student discounts are available, and many students opt to cycle or use mobile phones for communication instead of transportation.
To manage their finances effectively, students can seek budgetary advice and support from their universities, which often have dedicated teams to assist with financial planning and maximising their student experience. Additionally, international students can explore the numerous scholarships and funding programmes offered by the Irish government, universities, and private organisations to help offset the cost of living and tuition fees.
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Culture, nature and history
Ireland is steeped in history, with evidence of farming on the island dating back 6,000 years to the Neolithic period. The country has ancient Gaelic roots, and its culture has been influenced by its native folklore and legends, such as those detailed in Lebor Gabála Érenn. The first settlers of the island after the last Ice Age were cavemen of the Mesolithic period. In historic times, cows were a primary source of wealth and status, as depicted in the Táin Bó Cúailinge.
Irish culture includes art, music, dance, folklore, traditional clothing, language, literature, cuisine, and sport. Traditional Irish music and dance are vibrant expressions of the country's heritage and are cornerstones of Ireland's cultural identity. Traditional instruments include the fiddle, tin whistle, uilleann pipes, and bodhrán. Traditional songs are often performed in Irish pubs, accompanied by the Celtic harp, an emblem of Ireland. The céilí, a traditional musical gathering, is an enduring expression of Irish social life.
Ireland has a strong literary heritage, with four Nobel prizewinners: George Bernard Shaw, W.B. Yeats, Samuel Beckett, and Seamus Heaney. Irish literature has been enriched by the country's history of storytelling, folklore, and myths. The Great Book of Ireland, compiled between 1989 and 1991, contains hundreds of Irish poems, music compositions, and drawings, all handwritten or hand-drawn.
Irish fashion has evolved beyond the iconic Aran sweater, with various designers establishing fashion trends that have broad appeal. The country's cuisine also reflects its culture, with traditional foods such as soda bread, corned beef, and colcannon.
Ireland is known for its lush landscapes and stunning natural landmarks, such as the Cliffs of Moher on the west coast, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. The country enjoys a temperate maritime climate, with mild winters and cool summers, and its culture is deeply connected to the sea, with a rich maritime history.
With its rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking natural scenery, Ireland offers a unique and captivating experience for international students interested in exploring its traditions and landscapes.
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Student experience
Ireland is one of the most popular study destinations in Europe, offering a first-rate education in a traditional yet modern setting. Thousands of international students from around the world are attracted to its universities, which are known for their academic excellence and transformative student experiences.
One of the main reasons international students choose Ireland is its world-class education in a progressive, innovative country with promising career options. Ireland is ranked 17th in the Bloomberg Innovation Index 2021 and is home to five of Forbes Top 10 companies, including Google and Amazon. The country also has the fourth-highest standard of education in the world, according to the OECD 2019 Education Report. University College Dublin (UCD), for example, is ranked in the top 1% of higher education institutions worldwide and has been named the number one university in Ireland for graduate employability.
Ireland is also an ideal destination for students interested in stunning scenery, beautiful coastal and mountain walks, ancient culture, and architecture. The country has a long and complicated history, with the customs, myths, and languages of ancient tribes like the Celts still being important to modern Irish citizens. For those who prefer indoor activities, Ireland offers numerous museums and art galleries, gourmet food, coffee culture, and cosy pubs with traditional live music.
Ireland is a very safe, friendly, and welcoming country, ranking 3rd on the Global Peace Index and 13th on the World Happiness Index. The Irish are known for their good nature and genuine interest in people from around the world. The country also offers a range of accommodation options for students, from on-campus housing to off-campus rentals, although the high demand for student accommodation means that it can be challenging to find a place to live. It is recommended that students start their search early and be aware of potential accommodation scams.
Finally, the stay-back visa option is another attractive feature for international students, allowing graduates to avail of one or two-year stay-back visas to pursue career opportunities in Ireland after completing their studies.
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Frequently asked questions
Ireland is one of the most popular study-abroad destinations in Europe. It offers a world-class education in a progressive, innovative country with promising career options. Ireland is a safe, friendly, and welcoming country. It has stunning scenery, beautiful coastal and mountain walks, ancient culture, and architecture.
Ireland offers numerous opportunities for graduates with an international background. Ireland is home to five of Forbes Top 10 companies; Apple, Google, Alphabet, Amazon, and Samsung. The country also offers a stay-back visa option for graduates wishing to stay in Ireland to pursue their careers.
The cost of living for students in Ireland varies based on several factors, including location, choice of accommodation, transport options, and personal lifestyle.
University College Dublin (UCD) is ranked in the top 1% of higher education institutions worldwide. UCD has been named the number one university in Ireland for two consecutive years and has over 10,000 international students from 152 countries. Trinity College Dublin is another popular option for international students, with specific information on English language entrance requirements, visas, scholarships, and fee guidance.
Organising accommodation before arriving in Ireland is essential due to high demand. Some universities may offer pre-booked accommodation, while others may require you to arrange it yourself. The Irish Council for International Students (ICOS) provides an Accommodation Guide with valuable advice for renting off-campus and resources to help students find suitable housing and avoid scams.
