Higher education in Ireland for international students. List of 21 top institutions, 2024 fees, rankings

Today, Ireland is the leading country among best destinations for educational tourism according to foreign students. Ireland attracts international students with high-quality educational services, a wide range of schools and colleges, exciting cultural programs. SMAPSE offers TOP-10 prestigious Irish colleges and universities where international students can get high-quality and balanced higher education that will open wide career opportunitites. 

Please, don't hesitate to contact SMAPSE experts as they are always ready to answer all your questions. 

Higher Education in Ireland: requirements and benefits

Ireland's educational heritage dates back to the Middle Ages, when priests received their education in Irish monasteries and then traveled to teach across Europe. To this day, the country is renowned for its exceptional education system, harmoniously blending time-honored traditions with modern approaches.

Respected Diplomas 

While Irish universities may not consistently occupy top positions in global rankings, their degrees hold great value for employers in Europe and the USA. Graduates often find it easy to secure quality jobs.

Opportunities for Foreign Students

Ireland offers enticing prospects for foreign students. Many have the chance to secure part-time employment with leading companies during their studies, and post-graduation, they often find full-time roles, facilitating their stay in Ireland.

Competitive Research Environment

Ireland's research capabilities now rival those of the United Kingdom, thanks to substantial investments in the research field and active participation from foreign scientists. Dublin, in particular, stands poised to become a global scientific hub, with major IT giants such as Google, Facebook, and Zynga already establishing their presence in the city.

Sam Jones

Recruitment Director for Partnership with INTO Universities (Europe and Central Asia)

What firstly should be considered when choosing a university?

It depends on the student - everyone determines the most important criteria for himself. I would advise you to take several rankings and compare them with each other, plus take into account the cost of the course, the location of the university and its scale, the percentage of graduates' employment. See where graduates continue their studies or where they go to work.

Ireland provides a streamlined admission process for international students pursuing higher education, with minimal language requirements and reasonable certificate scores, among other criteria.

Irish citizens are renowned for their friendliness towards foreigners. They are always eager to forge new friendships and extend assistance to newcomers.

Guide to Higher Education in Ireland for International Students

Structure Based on the Bologna System

Higher education in Ireland follows the Bologna system, encompassing three levels: bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs. Undergraduates can opt for either a three-year Ordinary Bachelor Degree or a four-year Honors Bachelor Degree, with the latter often conferring honors upon graduation.

Master's and Doctoral Programs

The master's program in Ireland spans two years, with students engaging in research work under the guidance of a supervisor. It typically involves fewer lectures and seminars. Doctoral studies, on the other hand, last anywhere from 2 to 6 years.

Higher Education Institutions in Ireland for International Students

Ireland hosts different types of higher education institutions, each catering to specific preferences and career paths. Universities are ideal for those pursuing scientific careers and research-oriented studies. There are nine universities in Ireland.

Institutes and colleges are better suited for applied sciences, offering practice-oriented programs that thoroughly prepare students for their future careers. Many organizations place high value on diplomas from institutes and colleges, attributing it to the practical knowledge and skills they impart.

Academic Calendar and Facilities

The academic year in Ireland commences in September and concludes in June, encompassing two or three semesters. Students can expect a rigorous academic load, including numerous lectures, seminars, and one-on-one sessions with mentors. All Irish universities are well-equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including high-quality sports equipment, as physical activities are often a requirement. Additionally, students can participate in clubs, studios, and various student communities.

Opportunities for Part-Time Work

While studying, students can work up to 20 hours per week, and job opportunities are abundant. The country actively encourages final-year students to work in their respective fields. Many graduates continue their employment in Irish companies, thus remaining in Ireland. High-achieving students may also be eligible for financial incentives.

Admission to top Irish universities can be competitive. It is advisable to consider preparatory courses such as the University Foundation program. This one-year pre-university course is designed to assist international students in adapting to the new academic and linguistic environment. A high school diploma with excellent grades is typically required, alongside proof of language proficiency, often demonstrated through TOEFL certificate (550), IELTS scores starting from 6 points.

Ireland stands out as one of the most budget-friendly English-speaking countries for higher education. Tuition fees in leading Irish universities typically range from 15,000 to 20,000 euros annually, with medical specialties being the exception, costing around 30,000 euros. Education at less prestigious institutions is more affordable, averaging about 15,000 euros per year. Living expenses vary depending on location, with the capital cities being pricier. On average, students in Ireland can expect to spend between 7,000 and 10,000 euros per year, making it approximately 30% cheaper than studying in the UK.

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