Ireland is becoming an increasingly popular destination for international students thanks to its world-class education system, safe and friendly environment, and English-speaking universities. With a strong focus on research and innovation, Ireland offers programs in diverse fields such as IT, engineering, business, medicine, arts, and humanities. International students can also benefit from opportunities to work part-time during studies and explore post-study work visa options after graduation.
Annual Intakes in Ireland
Ireland generally offers two main intakes:
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Fall Intake (September/October): The primary and largest intake, offering the widest range of programs across universities.
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Spring Intake (January/February): Limited intake; fewer programs available, mainly at postgraduate level or specific courses.
Top Universities in Ireland
| University Name | QS World Ranking 2025 | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Trinity College Dublin (TCD) | 81 | Dublin |
| University College Dublin (UCD) | 171 | Dublin |
| University of Galway | 289 | Galway |
| University College Cork (UCC) | 292 | Cork |
| Dublin City University (DCU) | 436 | Dublin |
| University of Limerick (UL) | 426 | Limerick |
| Maynooth University | 801-850 | Maynooth, Kildare |
| RCSI University of Medicine | 851-900 | Dublin |
| Technological University Dublin | 801-850 | Dublin |
Note: QS rankings are indicative and updated annually.
Average Course Fees (Public Universities)
| Program Level | Annual Tuition Fees (EUR) | Annual Tuition Fees (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate | €9,850 – €25,000 | $10,700 – $27,000 |
| Postgraduate | €10,000 – €35,000 | $10,900 – $37,800 |
Medicine, engineering, and business programs may be at the higher end of the range.
Scholarships for International Students
International students in Ireland can apply for:
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Government of Ireland International Education Scholarships: Covers tuition fees and a €10,000 stipend.
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University Scholarships: Available at TCD, UCD, UCC, and other universities; merit-based and subject-specific.
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Faculty & Department Awards: For outstanding academic achievement in specific fields.
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Private and NGO Scholarships: Limited scholarships by Irish organizations or EU programs.
Types of Irish Student Visas
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Short Stay ‘C’ Visa: For courses or programs under 90 days.
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Long Stay ‘D’ Visa (Study Visa): For full-time courses exceeding 90 days; required for degree programs.
Eligibility Criteria
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Valid admission offer from a recognized Irish institution.
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Proof of sufficient funds (€10,000 minimum per year for living costs).
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Proof of tuition fee payment (at least partial or full payment).
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Private medical insurance.
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Minimum English language proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE).
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Intention to leave Ireland after studies (must be demonstrated).
Required Documents
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Completed visa application form (AVATS online).
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Valid passport.
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Official university offer letter.
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Proof of tuition fee payment.
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Bank statements showing required funds.
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Private medical insurance certificate.
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Academic transcripts and certificates.
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English proficiency test result.
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Statement of purpose.
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Passport-sized photos (as per visa guidelines).
How to Apply
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Complete the AVATS online visa application form.
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Print and sign the completed form.
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Gather required documents.
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Submit documents to the assigned Irish Visa Office or Embassy (by post or in person, depending on your country).
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Pay the visa fee.
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Attend a biometrics appointment (if required).
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Wait for a decision.
Cost of Ireland Study Visas
| Visa Type | Fee (EUR) |
|---|---|
| Single Entry | €60 |
| Multiple Entry | €100 |
| Transit Visa | €25 |
Visa Processing Time
| Visa Type | Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Study Visa | Up to 40 working days |
Processing time may vary based on application volume and completeness.
Visa Interview
Not every applicant is required to attend an interview, but some may be called for one to clarify study plans, financial status, or future intentions. Prepare clear answers about your study choice, financial situation, and post-study plans.
Cost of Living in Ireland
| Expense | Monthly Cost (EUR) | Annual Cost (EUR) |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | €300 – €900 | €3,600 – €10,800 |
| Utilities/Internet | €60 – €110 | €720 – €1,320 |
| Food | €250 – €350 | €3,000 – €4,200 |
| Transportation | €50 – €100 | €600 – €1,200 |
| Health Insurance | €40 – €60 | €480 – €720 |
| Miscellaneous | €100 – €200 | €1,200 – €2,400 |
| Total | €800 – €1,720 | €9,600 – €20,640 |
Final Tips
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Start your application process early to avoid delays.
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Prepare sufficient funds not just for tuition but living expenses.
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Check scholarship deadlines as they often close months before university deadlines.
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Keep copies of all documents for visa and immigration purposes.
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Engage with international student offices for support once admitted.
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Related FAQs
Is health insurance mandatory?
- Yes, all non-EU students must have private health insurance before arriving in Ireland.
Can I work while studying in Ireland?
- Yes, international students can work up to 20 hours per week during term and 40 hours per week during official holidays.
Can I stay in Ireland after graduation?
- Graduates can apply for a post-study work visa (Graduate Route) for up to 1 or 2 years, depending on qualification level.
Do universities in Ireland require IELTS?
- Most universities accept IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or equivalent tests. Some may waive it for applicants from English-speaking countries.
Is accommodation guaranteed?
- Not all universities guarantee accommodation for international students. Apply early for university housing or explore private rentals.
Disclaimer
This publication is provided for general information only and is not intended to cover all aspects of the topics discussed. The information contained in this publication does not constitute legal, tax or other professional advice of this website or its affiliates. Previous results do not guarantee a similar result. We make no representations, warranties or guarantees, express or implied that the contents of the publication are accurate, complete or current. Schoolingvisa.com is a service that facilitates a student’s process of acquiring a study visa by being a partner of other visa and immigration service companies. We offer consultancy services on student visas and any other visa, immigration options, but we do not directly provide any visas. We are not part of any government or immigration department. We do not provide any type of professional immigration, regardless of the destination.
Note: The information provided in this article is general, subject to frequent change and does not constitute any legal advice. For any specific study visa and legal advice you can rely on, please contact the consultants/advisors, lawyers and members of our expert team.