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Find out how to study abroad in Ireland

The Irish higher education system offers a wide range of internationally recognised courses and, as a result, attracts a number of students from abroad. Ireland has nine universities in the overall Times Higher Education World University Rankings. The highest-ranking university in Ireland is Trinity College Dublin, which is ranked at number 164.

Fees

Irish, EU/EEA and Swiss Students

Under the Free Fees Initiative University Education in Ireland is free, but only for students who:

  • Have Irish or EU nationality, or is a national of a member country of the European Economic Area or Switzerland, or has been granted official refugee status.
  • Have been a resident in Ireland or an EU Member State for at least three of the five years preceding entry to the course.
  • Must not be undertaking a second undergraduate course.

Although there are no tuition fees for eligible Irish and EU students, there are still the student service fees that need to be paid on registration in order to cover the cost of examinations, insurance, and registration.

Students from Other Countries

If you don’t qualify for the Free Fees Initiative, then studying in Ireland is still an attractive option because it offers reasonably priced higher education. Consequently, Ireland attracts a number of international students, particularly Americans, who are enticed by lower fees (compared to their own country) and the exciting experience of living abroad.

Learn more about the immigration requirements for non Irish, EU/EEA and Swiss National Students.

Scholarships

For a list of the scholarships available for international students, see the Education in Ireland website.

English Language Requirements

As courses are taught in English, you must be proficient in English in order to be accepted. However, there are many private English language training schools nationwide which offer both short and long-term courses. Some of the universities and colleges also provide English language training courses for those aiming to study with them.

Undergraduate Study in Ireland

Irish and EU Students need to apply to enter an Irish Higher Education Institution (HEI) through the Central Applications Office (CAO) rather than the individual institution.

For Irish students, the CAO provides a handbook to students via schools in September which provides information on courses, fees, deadlines etc… EU students can access this CAO handbook online.

You must submit your application to study either online through the CAO website or by post.

For non-EU students, you will need to contact the International Office of the institution that you wish to attend.

Entry Requirements

The entry requirements vary from year to year, depending on the number of places available and the number of applicants. Entry into the more popular courses can be competitive.

Irish students compete for entry based on results achieved in their Leaving Certificate Examination. Students are graded on their six best subject scores.

The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma is also accepted as meeting the minimum entry requirement for higher education programmes, as all applications are assessed individually. But the Diploma does not guarantee admission and some institutions may stipulate additional requirements.

Medicine

If you want to apply to study medicine in Ireland, you will need to undertake the Health Professions Admissions Test (HPAT). The score achieved in this examination will be added to your Leaving Certificate points to create a total point’s score. Students must achieve minimum points, which can change year to year, and also meet the matriculation requirements of the Medical School applied to.

Non-EU applicants will need to contact the International Office of the institution they wish to attend.

Mature Students

Universities also have systems in place for accepting mature students, and students who have successfully completed a Post Leaving Certificate or Further Education courses.

Thinking about studying abroad? Learn more about studying at #Irish College and Universities #Ireland #studyabroad

Postgraduate Study in Ireland

Irish, EU and non-EU postgraduate students can apply directly to their preferred institute. However, some colleges may redirect you to apply through the Postgraduate Applications Centre (PAC). The PAC website provides detailed information about the colleges and courses that are available and also enables you to lodge your application.

Entry-Requirements

Graduate Medical School

If you want to apply for entry to the graduate entry programmes you will need to sit the Graduate Medical School Admissions Test (GAMSAT). This exam was developed by the Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER) to assist with the selection of students for graduate medical programmes.

PhD

FindAPhD provides an up to date portal of the PhD projects that are available to international students and researchers across a large range of disciplines.

Helpful Tips for Studying in Ireland

 

Further Reading

Studying abroad provides you with an exciting opportunity to live in another country. However, preparation is the key to enjoying a stress free study abroad experience. Use these books to guide you:

5 Responses

  1. Matt Ashton

    I finished on postgraduate (M.Phil) in 2009 and I wanted to go back to school for a MBA. I am kind of stuck on finding info, can I GO BACK (I didn’t overstay my visa) if I already got one?

  2. Mary

    Hi Colleen,

    Thank you for this detailed information. My fiancé and I are trying to move to Ireland next year from the US. He is applying to several Masters and PhD programs. My questions is: Will I, as his wife, be able to work in Ireland if he has to do a one year Masters program before starting his PhD? Or will I have to apply for my own work permit completely separate from him? I understand that some schools have Hosting Agreements where spouses are able to work but that only applies to PhD candidates and not Masters students. He’s also eligible for Irish citizenship through descent but that process is on hold because of the pandemic. Thank you, your website is very helpful!

    Kindly,
    Mary

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