Study inIreland: Your Pathway to Global Opportunities
World-class Ireland, endless opportunities in Australia
Why Choose Ireland?
Ireland is a dynamic, English-speaking hub of innovation and academic excellence in the heart of Europe. Home to world-class universities and global tech giants like Google, Microsoft, and Apple, Ireland offers internationally recognized degrees with strong industry connections.
All higher education institutions in Ireland are regulated by Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI), ensuring high teaching standards and student protection. International students benefit from a safe, welcoming environment and a vibrant cultural experience.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Primary Language | English |
| Visa Type | Long Stay (D) Student Visa + IRP Card (Stamp 2) (We provide full assistance.) |
| Major Intakes | September (Autumn – main), January/February (Spring), and limited Summer intakes |
| Required Exams | IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Academic, or Duolingo English Test (typically IELTS 6.0–6.5 overall) |
| Program Levels | Undergraduate (3–4 years), Postgraduate Taught (1 year), Postgraduate Research, and Higher Diplomas |
| Est. Annual Fees |
Undergraduate: EUR 10,000 to EUR 25,000 Postgraduate: EUR 12,000 to EUR 35,000+ |
| Funding Sources | Scholarships, educational loans, part-time work, and personal savings |
Top-Ranked Universities (QS 2024)
Ireland’s compact higher education system delivers exceptional value, with globally ranked institutions known for research and employability.
| University | QS Rankings (2024) |
|---|---|
| Trinity College Dublin (TCD) | 87 |
| University College Dublin (UCD) | 171 |
| University College Cork (UCC) | 276 |
| National University of Ireland Galway (NUIG) | 288 |
| Dublin City University (DCU) | 436 |
| University of Limerick (UL) | 521–530 |
Popular Fields of Study
International students are drawn to Ireland for its strong ties to global industries and practical, career-focused programs:
- Computer Science & IT: Software engineering, AI, and cloud computing—aligned with Ireland’s “Silicon Docks” tech ecosystem.
- Business & Finance: AACSB-accredited programs with internships at multinational HQs in Dublin.
- Pharmaceutical Sciences & Biotechnology: Ireland is Europe’s top pharma hub—ideal for research and industry placements.
- Data Analytics & Cybersecurity: High-demand fields supported by government and private sector investment.
- Engineering: Focus on sustainable energy, biomedical, and mechanical systems.
- Arts & Humanities: Rich literary and cultural heritage with globally respected programs in history, literature, and media.
Admission & Visa Requirements
To study in Ireland, you must be accepted by a recognized institution and apply for a Long Stay (D) Student Visa if from a visa-required country (e.g., India, Nigeria, Pakistan).
1. Academic & English Proficiency
- Recognition: Your course must be on the Interim List of Eligible Programmes (ILEP) or offered by a QQI-recognized institution.
- Eligibility: Meet academic entry criteria (e.g., 12th-grade marks, bachelor’s degree) for your program level.
- Language: Provide IELTS (usually 6.0–6.5), TOEFL, or equivalent as specified by the university.
2. Proof of Funds
You must show access to at least EUR 10,000 for living expenses (in addition to full tuition payment) in a recognized bank account. Tuition must be paid in full before visa application.
3. Visa & Immigration Registration
After arrival, you must register with immigration to receive your IRP card (Stamp 2), which allows part-time work and stay validity aligned with your course.
Excel's Support: We assist with ILEP verification, financial documentation, visa application, and pre-departure orientation.
Important Application Intakes
Irish universities and colleges offer two main intakes per year:
| Intake | Timeframe | Recommended Application Period |
|---|---|---|
| Autumn (Main) | September to December | January to June (apply early for competitive courses) |
| Spring | January/February to May | July to November of the previous year |
| Summer (Limited) | May to August | December to March (for select diplomas and short courses) |
Cost of Study & Living Expenses
Planning your budget ensures a smooth transition to life in Ireland.
| Expense | Estimated Cost Range (EUR) |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | EUR 10,000 – 35,000+/year (varies by field; STEM and business are typically higher) |
| Living Expenses | EUR 10,000 – 12,000/year (Dublin: ~EUR 12,000; other cities: ~EUR 10,000) |
| Health Insurance | EUR 500 – 1,000/year (mandatory for visa; some universities include it in fees) |
| Additional Costs | EUR 1,500 – 2,500/year (books, transport, phone, personal) |
Available Scholarships
While government scholarships are limited, Irish institutions offer merit-based and country-specific awards:
- Government of Ireland International Education Scholarships
- Trinity College Dublin Global Excellence Postgraduate Scholarships
- UCD Global Scholarships
- DCU International Student Scholarships
- University of Galway International Merit Awards
- HEA (Higher Education Authority) and institutional bursaries
