You'll have the flexibility to select from a vast array of over 5,000 internationally recognised qualifications, ensuring you find a course that suits your preferences. If you decide to stay in Ireland after graduation, numerous opportunities await, as the country hosts a multitude of international companies. Notable organisations like Google, Dell, Apple, Facebook, Twitter, GSK, and Pfizer have established their headquarters in Ireland.
Moreover, the Emerald Isle offers a secure and welcoming environment for studying. Its blend of traditional Gaelic culture, a rich history in the arts, along with coastal landscapes, untouched countryside, and vibrant cities, provides a multitude of leisure opportunities.
Irish universities
Higher education in Ireland is offered through various institutions, comprising seven universities, seven Colleges of Education, and 14 Institutes of Technology.
The seven universities in Ireland are state-funded and include:
Dublin City University (DCU)
National University of Ireland, Galway
National University of Ireland, Maynooth
Trinity College, Dublin
University College Cork
University College Dublin
University of Limerick.
Five institutions rank within the top 500 globally, as per the QS World University Rankings 2023. Trinity College Dublin holds the highest position at number 98, followed by University College Dublin (181), National University of Ireland, Galway (270), University College Cork (303), and Dublin City University (471).
Dublin, the capital city, is a prominent student hub with the highest concentration of universities and colleges. Additionally, cities such as Galway on the west coast and Cork on the south coast are popular among students.
The academic calendar in Ireland aligns with that of the UK. Typically starting in September, the academic year progresses until December, with a break for Christmas. Studies resume in January and conclude in June/July, with a break in between for Easter.
Degree courses in Ireland
Irish universities provide a diverse range of undergraduate programs available for both full-time and part-time study. Full-time courses typically span three years.
Entry requirements vary across institutions and specific courses, so it's advisable to check with your chosen university before applying. Generally, completion of upper secondary education, possession of a valid school leaver's certificate, and the ability to demonstrate proficiency in English are standard prerequisites.
For UK or European Union (EU) students, the application process for all undergraduate courses is done through the Central Applications Office (CAO). Non-EU or international students should apply directly to their chosen institution, either online or by downloading an application form and submitting it by mail.
Masters programs in Ireland typically follow a structure similar to those in the UK, generally taking one year to complete, although some research Masters may extend to two years. The curriculum involves working through modular units of study, fulfilling necessary assessments, and culminating in a dissertation during the final year.
Entry requirements vary among institutions and courses, but in most cases, a 2:2 undergraduate degree in a related discipline is the minimum requirement.
While the majority of postgraduate courses in Ireland are taught in English, if English is not your first language, you'll need to provide evidence of proficiency. It's crucial to thoroughly understand the entry requirements for the specific course you're interested in before applying. If clarification is needed, contacting the university directly is recommended.
PhDs
Doctoral degrees in Ireland typically span three to four years when pursued on a full-time basis, and there are options to study both 'traditional' and 'structured' programs. The traditional PhD includes the standard academic components, while the structured PhD offers additional support by integrating an organized program of training and evaluation.
While the majority of PhDs are undertaken at universities, high-quality programs are also available at Institutes of Technology.
To gain entry into a Doctoral program, you typically need an upper-class (2:1) Masters in a relevant subject. It's important to check the specific entry requirements for the program you are interested in and to understand whether a traditional or structured PhD aligns better with your academic goals and preferences.
Course fees
Tuition fees for both undergraduate and postgraduate courses in Ireland can vary significantly. The cost is influenced by factors such as the specific course, the institution, and whether you are classified as a UK, EU, or non-EU student. Notably, fees for international students are generally higher at both levels of study.
Ireland implements a Free Fees Initiative for undergraduate studies, exempting EU/European Economic Area (EEA), UK, and Swiss students attending publicly-funded courses from paying tuition fees. This also applies to individuals with official refugee status in the state, provided it is their first-time full-time undergraduate course. If eligible, students are only required to pay a registration fee, approximately €3,000 (£2,532). For more details, you can refer to Citizens Information - Third level student fees and charges.
Postgraduate course fees are updated annually, so it's advisable to check your chosen university's website for the most accurate and up-to-date figures. As a general guideline, Master's students in Ireland can anticipate fees ranging from €3,000 (£2,531) to €30,000 (£25,314) for a postgraduate course.
Funding to study in Ireland
Financial support, in the form of scholarships and bursaries, may be available from your chosen university. To explore scholarships and check eligibility criteria, it is recommended to visit individual university websites.
Governmental and organizational financial awards are also offered in Ireland. You can find a list of available scholarships on Education in Ireland - Scholarships.
The Student Grant Scheme is the primary financial assistance program for undergraduate students, divided into maintenance and fee grants. Maintenance grants contribute to general living costs, while fee grants cover tuition fees, field trips, or student contributions. To be eligible for a student grant, you must be a national of an EEA member state or Switzerland or have immigration status or leave to remain.
Postgraduate students under the Student Grant Scheme may:
Receive a new flat-rate fee contribution of €3,500 (£2,953) if they pass the fee contribution means test.
Have all their tuition fees paid (up to €6,270 (£5,291)) if they meet the qualifying conditions for the special rate of grant for disadvantaged students.
Funding details are subject to change, so it's important to check the entitlements by visiting Citizens Information - Student Grant Scheme or Student Finance Ireland.
EU students may also be eligible for postgraduate loans in Northern Ireland.
Non-EU/European Economic Area (EEA) students are ineligible for the Student Grant Scheme and postgraduate loan funding.
Student visas:
If you are a student from the UK, EU, EEA, or Switzerland, you do not need a visa to study in Ireland. A comprehensive list of countries exempt from needing a visa can be found at Citizens Information - Visa Requirements for Entering Ireland. However, if your home country is not on this list, you will need to apply for a study visa.
For those requiring a visa, the application can be submitted online at the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS). If your course duration is less than three months, you should apply for a 'C study visa'. For courses lasting longer than three months, a 'D study visa' is appropriate.
Documents required for the visa application include:
A letter of acceptance from a recognized school, college, or university confirming acceptance onto a full-time course.
Evidence of academic and English language proficiency.
Confirmation that course fees have been paid in full.
Proof of sufficient funds (usually €7,000/£5,908) to support yourself during your stay.
Evidence that you or a sponsor have access to at least €7,000/£5,908 for each subsequent year of your studies.
Verification of private medical insurance.
An explanation of any gaps in your educational history.
Confirmation of your intention to return to your home country after leaving Ireland.
Additionally, you will need to provide two color passport photographs, your current passport, and a signed letter of application with your full contact details.
For non-EU students, registration with the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB) is required upon arrival if the period of study will exceed 90 days.
Visa application fees are €60 (£51) for a single journey visa and €100 (£84) for a multiple journey visa. It's advisable to apply for your visa as early as possible, as the standard processing time is eight weeks, which may increase during busy periods.
How to apply:
Postgraduate courses in Ireland are often in high demand, and competition for a spot in popular programs can be intense. Each institution has its own application procedures and deadlines, so thorough research into your chosen course and applying well in advance is crucial to enhance your chances of acceptance.
In most cases, you'll apply directly to the international office of your chosen institution, either online or through the post. The application process typically includes completing an application form or personal statement, submitting transcripts of your previous results, and possibly participating in a postgraduate interview.
However, a few Irish institutions use the Postgraduate Applications Centre (PAC) to process Masters and PhD applications. Similar to the Universities and Colleges Admission Service (UCAS) in the UK, you submit your application online through PAC. PAC charges a non-refundable processing fee of €50 (£42). To check if your university utilises PAC, visit their website.
Language requirements:
All postgraduate courses in Ireland are conducted in English, so it is essential to be fluent.
If English is not your first language, you must pass an approved language test before enrolling in your course. Accepted tests include:
Cambridge English Language Assessments (CELA)
Duolingo English Test
English Test for Academic and Professional Purposes (ETAPP)
International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic
Language Cert
Oxford Test of English
Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic
Skills for English Four Facet Test
TOEFL
Trinity College London.
Make sure to check the specific language proficiency requirements of your chosen institution and program, as they may have preferences for certain tests or minimum score thresholds.
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| Part-time work allowance: | 20 hours/per week. |
| Intake: | January/Spring, May/Summer and September/Fall intake. |
| Work permit in post-study: | 12 - 24 months |
| Part-time work allowance: | 20 hours/per week. |
| Intake: | January/Spring, May/Summer and September/Fall intake. |
| Work permit in post-study: | 12 - 24 months |
| Part-time work allowance: | 20 hours/per week. |
| Intake: | January/Spring, May/Summer and September/Fall intake. |
| Work permit in post-study: | 12 - 24 months |
