Study in Ireland

Education system in Ireland

Higher level education in Ireland is made up of three sectors that are substantially funded by the State: the university sector, the technological sector and colleges of education. In addition, there are a number of independent private colleges.

Ireland has seven universities, which are autonomous and self-governing. They offer degree programmes at bachelor’s, master’s and doctorate levels. The technological sector includes institutes of technology which provide programmes of education and training in areas such as business, science, engineering, linguistics and music to certificate, diploma and degree levels.

Postgraduate studies in Ireland

Irish universities are academic research and teaching institutions with broad coverage across various fields and subject areas. They offer a wide range of master’s programmes and around 25% of their students are usually postgraduates.

Pre-master’s

A pre-master’s is for international students who need to improve their English and develop research, academic writing, and seminar skills ahead of a taught master’s degree. Pre-master’s programmes in Ireland are designed to enhance the English language skills of international students interested in studying at a postgraduate level, as well as to improve their ability to adapt to a different learning culture.

Master’s

Studying toward a master’s degree in Ireland is much the same as getting one in the UK. It also generally takes one year to complete; however, some research-based programmes might extend to two years. Students from outside the EU and EEA can expect to pay around €9,950 per year as a minimum in terms of fees.

PhD

PhD programmes in Ireland are organised in a similar way to those in the UK. Doctoral degrees are third-cycle programmes. As elsewhere, the core component of doctoral work is the advancement of knowledge through original research.

A standard full-time PhD in Ireland is usually completed in 3-4 years. For more structured programmes this is normally 4 years.

Cost of studying in Ireland

Tuition when studying in Ireland can cost between €8,000 and €14,000 per year for an undergraduate programme. For postgraduate programmes it may cost between €11,000 and €20,000 per year.

Precisely how much you will need will vary depending on where you are studying in Ireland, on the type of accommodation you choose and, of course, on your own personal lifestyle. On average, we estimate that a student will spend between €7,000 and €12,000 per year.

Getting a student visa

Students who need a visa to enter the country are required to demonstrate that they have access to €7,000 before they may be issued with a visa.

After successfully registering with the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB), you will be given a certificate of registration indicating that you have been given an immigration permission allowing you to study in Ireland.

Health insurance

Students are strongly advised to arrange insurance for private medical care as this ensures choice of hospital, doctor and hospital accommodation in the event of illness. Please note that you can only arrange health insurance with an Irish Health Insurance Provider when you are living in Ireland.

Working in Ireland (as a student)

International students engaged in full-time study of at least one year’s duration (on a course leading to a qualification which is recognised by the Irish Department of Education and Skills currently do not need a work permit to work in Ireland.

It may be possible to stay in Ireland after you complete your studies for the purpose of seeking employment under the Irish Third Level Graduate Scheme. This scheme exists to allow legally resident non-EU third level graduates to remain in Ireland in order to look for employment or apply for a work permit.

Post-study opportunities in Ireland

It may be possible to stay in Ireland after you complete your studies for the purpose of seeking employment under the Irish Third Level Graduate Scheme. This scheme exists to allow legally resident non-EU third level graduates to remain in Ireland in order to look for employment or apply for a work permit.

Students who have completed an undergraduate degree will be given permission to stay for 12 months while those with a postgraduate or masters degree will be allowed to extend this permission for another 12 months.