Ireland is home to some of the world’s most renowned universities, offering top-tier education across various disciplines, including medicine, science, technology, engineering, law, and business. With its commitment to academic excellence, Ireland consistently ranks among the top 20 countries worldwide for education quality.
In recent years, Ireland has emerged as a sought-after destination for Indian students due to its world-class universities, English-speaking environment, and attractive career opportunities. Currently, 7,000 Indian students are studying in Ireland, contributing to the total 35,140 (12%) international student population.
Why Choose Ireland for Higher Studies?
- Globally Recognized Education: Ireland has 8 universities ranked in the QS World Rankings, known for their academic excellence and innovation.
- Simple Visa Process: The Ireland student visa acceptance rate is 96%, with a processing time of 8-10 weeks.
- Affordable Education: Tuition fees range from €6,000 to €20,000 annually. Scholarships between €2,000 and €4,000 are available to students.
- Post-Study Work Opportunities: Ireland provides a welcoming environment for graduates to explore career prospects in multinational companies.
Ireland Study Visa Guide
Eligibility Criteria
To secure an Ireland student visa, applicants must fulfill the following conditions:
- Letter of Acceptance: Admission confirmation from an Irish university.
- Full-Time Study: Enrolled in a course with a minimum of 15 hours of weekly study.
- Financial Proof: Must demonstrate funds between €7,000 – €10,000 to support expenses.
- Return Confirmation: Intent to return to the home country after visa expiration.
- Medical Insurance: Valid medical coverage for the duration of the stay.
- Academic Documents: Proof of academic ability and justification for any educational gaps.
Required Documents
- Valid passport (12-month validity)
- Two passport-sized photographs
- Signed application letter stating visa purpose
- Proof of tuition fee payment
- IELTS (minimum 6.5) or other accepted English proficiency test
- Copies of academic transcripts and certificates
- Scholarship proof (if applicable)
Visa Fees
- Single Entry: €60 – €80
- Multiple Entry: €100 – €120
- Transit Visa: €125
Processing Time
- General Processing: 4-8 weeks
- Application Advice: Apply at least 3 months before travel to avoid delays.
Ireland’s Education System Ireland follows the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ), which includes:
- 10 Universities
- 10 Institutes of Technology
- 7+ Private Higher Education Institutions
Top Universities in Ireland
University | QS World Ranking 2025 | City | 1st Year Tuition Fee (€) | Scholarships Available |
Trinity College Dublin | 87 | Dublin | 7K – 64K | Up to 5K |
University College Dublin | 126 | Dublin | 12K – 68K | Up to 100% |
University College Cork | 273 | Cork | 10K – 55K | Up to 4K |
University of Galway | 273 | Galway | 9K – 58K | Up to 10K |
Dublin City University | 421 | Dublin | 9K – 29K | Various |
Popular Courses & Career Prospects
Program | Tuition Fee (€) | Top Universities | Job Roles | Avg. Annual Salary (€) |
Business Analytics | 10K – 25K | UCD, NUIG, UL | Data Analyst, Financial Analyst | 40K – 52K |
Software Engineering | 15K – 30K | DCU, NUIG, UL | Software Developer, IT Security Specialist | 46K – 65K |
Computer Science | 8K – 20K | NUIG, TCD, TU Dublin | Web Developer, UX Designer | 37K – 55K |
Medicine | 10K – 35K | UCD, TCD, RCSI | Physician, Radiologist | 51K |
Work While Studying in Ireland
- Stamp 2 Visa: Allows students to work 20 hours per week during the academic year and 40 hours per week on holidays.
- Top Part-Time Jobs & Salaries:
- Sales Associate: €10/hr
- Tutor: €12/hr
- Store Assistant: €10/hr
- Secretary: €12/hr
Ireland PR After Study: Step-by-Step Guide Students who have completed their education and obtained a work permit in Ireland may be eligible for Permanent Residency (PR).
Eligibility Criteria
- Resided in Ireland for at least 5 years (education + employment stay).
- Valid work permit (Stamp 1 or Stamp 4).
- Proof of stable employment.
- Clean conduct and valid Irish residence permit.
Application Process
- Secure admission to an Irish university.
- Gain work experience through internships or post-study work permits.
- Extend your work visa to accumulate 5 years of residence.
- Apply for Ireland PR.
Fees & Registration
- PR Application Fee: €500 (paid within 28 days of approval)
- Additional registration costs may apply.
Scholarships to Study in Ireland
Scholarship Name | Coverage |
Government of Ireland International Education Scholarship | €9,360 |
Irish Research Council Scholarships | Variable Funding |
Higher Education Authority (HEA) Scholarships | Tuition + Living Expenses |
Erasmus+ Program | Variable Funding |
NUI Galway Hardiman Research Scholarship | Full Tuition + Stipend |
UCD Global Excellence Scholarship | 100% Tuition Waiver |
DCU International Merit Scholarship | 100% Tuition Waiver |
Living Costs in Ireland
Expense | Monthly Cost (€) |
Rent (Shared Apartment) | 500 – 1,200 |
Food | 250 – 350 |
Utilities | 30 – 50 |
Transport | 65 – 85 |
Miscellaneous | 200 – 300 |
Total Estimated Cost | €1,240 – €1,880 |
City-Wise Living Costs
City | Avg. Monthly Cost (€) | Tuition Fees (€) |
Dublin | 1,637 | 11,650 – 21,886 |
Galway | 1,080 | 16,300 |
Cork | 1,171 | 12,000 |
Limerick | 1,016 | 15,500 |
Ready to Study in Ireland? At EKASO – TAKA IMMIGRATION LAW CONSULTANTS PVT LTD, we guide you through every step of your study abroad journey, from selecting the right university to securing your visa. Contact us today to begin your academic future in Ireland!