9 Best Universities In Ireland For Foreign Students

Are you considering studying in Ireland and looking for the best universities for foreign students? 

When it comes to pursuing higher education, Ireland stands tall with its renowned universities that have consistently attracted students from all corners of the globe.

With a perfect blend of academic excellence, vibrant campus life, and a warm and welcoming culture, Irish universities offer an ideal environment for foreign students to thrive.

At the forefront of Irish higher education are the best universities that have earned global recognition for their outstanding academic programs and research initiatives.

These institutions, nestled in both bustling cities and serene countryside, provide an unparalleled educational experience that transcends borders.

So, if you’re up for an adventure that’s safe, friendly, and offers stunning scenery, studying in Ireland is your ticket to a memorable experience. 

9 Best Universities In Ireland For Foreign Students

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Importance of Choosing the Right University for Foreign Students in Ireland

Ireland has gained global recognition for its rich educational legacy. With its commitment to delivering excellent-quality education, the Emerald Isle has gradually become a sought-after study destination for students worldwide.

As it’s ranked among the top 20 education systems globally, some of the world’s best universities are found in Ireland, ensuring a high-quality learning experience for international students.

Irish universities are consistently ranked in the top 5% worldwide. These prestigious universities receive such high rankings across different areas of study because of the exceptional education they provide.

Ireland has become a prime destination for graduate students due to its status as a hub for multinational companies and the availability of excellent career prospects, thanks to English being one of the country’s official languages.

Deciding on the perfect university from a plethora of highly regarded educational institutions in Ireland can feel like a daunting task. This is why it’s important to choose wisely based on many deciding factors you should consider.

These include your field of study or specialization, ratio of students to staff, teaching faculty, areas of research expertise, satisfaction among students, prospects for graduate careers, and others.

Overview of the Irish Higher Education System

The higher education system or the third-level/tertiary education system in Ireland comprises various sectors that receive significant funding from the government. These include the university sector, the technological sector, and the colleges dedicated to education.

In general, universities operate independently and have their own governing bodies. They provide a wide range of degree programs, including bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees.

In December of 2022, the Irish Government unveiled their intention to establish collaborative degree programs between further education and higher education.

Beginning in September of 2023, students will have the opportunity to take up certain degree programs in further education and then advance to higher education.

Benefits of Studying in Ireland for Foreign Students

Why should you choose Ireland over other countries, or even your own? Well, let me give you a bunch of compelling reasons why 32,000 foreign students from over 100 countries have taken this path. Here are the benefits of studying in Ireland:

1. Access to world-class education

As already mentioned, Ireland takes pride in its world-class universities, which consistently rank within the top 5% globally. To ensure consistent quality across educational institutions, the Irish government closely monitors them through the National Framework of Qualifications.

This framework guarantees that the courses offered align with students’ desired career paths, providing tailored education to suit their aspirations.

The Irish education system is highly regarded for its great focus on research, innovation, and skill enhancement. There are plenty of opportunities to pursue certificate, diploma, and degree programs in Ireland.

With a focus on meeting the needs of students and preparing them for their chosen professions, Irish universities have so much to offer.

2. Education comes at a more affordable price

The government hooks you up with some financial support so attending a university in Ireland won’t break the bank like it does in some other countries.

The exact tuition fee might depend on what you’re studying and which university you choose. Such fees may undergo changes on an annual basis; but in general, Ireland is pretty affordable when it comes to education.

***Please note that all international students, whether from the EU/EEA or non-EU/EEA regions, are required to pay a student contribution fee of up to 3,000 EUR per year. This fee covers a range of services, including exam entries and support for clubs and societies.

3. Lower cost of living

If you factor in personal expenses, an average international student can expect to spend from around 600-1000 EUR per month. This is somewhat lower compared with other European countries.

4. Warm and friendly locals

When it comes to warmth and friendliness, Irish people are the champion! They’re famous for their big smiles and welcoming nature. Ireland ranks 3rd in the Global Peace Index and 14th in the Happiness Index of 2023.

5. Safety

The country has a reputation for safety as it’s long been recognized as a secure destination for students.

A safe environment is conducive to learning and personal growth, which makes Ireland an excellent choice for foreign students seeking a hassle-free educational journey.

6. Cultural immersion

Ireland has produced some seriously talented individuals in science, arts, and literature. So, when you’re done with your studies and work, Ireland becomes an incredible place for exploring diverse traditions, cultures, and ways of living.

The Irish are connected to their culture and traditions. When they’re not studying, you’ll find them having fun with sports, music, dance, and enjoying some mouthwatering food and drinks.

Pub culture is a huge deal in Ireland! No matter where you go, there’s always a lively bar or pub just around the corner, ready to make your nights unforgettable.

7. Travel opportunities

Ireland is a stunning natural beauty, from its picturesque landscapes, rugged mountains, and gorgeous views that will make your breath away. It’s like living in a postcard – and you can experience it while getting a very good education!

Another perk is Ireland’s location being a gateway to adventure. It’s so close to the United Kingdom and other EU nations that you have easy access to explore neighboring countries during your study stint.

Hop on a train or a short flight and – voila! – you’re off to explore the wonders of Europe while still calling Ireland your home base.

8. No language barriers

In Irish universities, English is the language used when it comes to instruction.

It’s the language spoken by most international students, and the fact that the majority of the Irish population speaks English makes it a top choice for students from around the world. You won’t have to worry about any language barriers while studying here.

To get admitted into Irish universities, international students usually need to show their English skills by submitting a proficiency certificate from a recognized test provider like IELTS or TOEFL.

So, as long as you pass that English proficiency test, you’re all set to embark on your Irish education adventure!

9. The option to take part-time jobs

International students have the option to take part-time jobs while studying in Ireland. It’s a way to earn some extra cash, gain valuable work experience, and maybe even make new connections.

10. Post-graduation employment

Ireland offers a post-work visa that lets you hunt for jobs within the country for a good chunk of time.

Ireland is a land of abundant job opportunities for students who have completed their education here. It is a hub for companies in fields like pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and technology.

Since Ireland is part of the European Union, you can even work in other EU countries. They are always in need of skilled workers, and graduates from Irish universities are in high demand.

So, not only can you explore job opportunities in Ireland, but you also have a ticket to a whole world of possibilities across Europe.

Disadvantages of Studying in Ireland for Foreign Students

While studying in Ireland offers numerous advantages, it’s important to consider a few potential drawbacks as well. Let’s check them out.

1. Strict visa requirements

Obtaining a student visa in Ireland is a crucial step, albeit a somewhat lengthy process.

Although the application procedure is relatively straightforward, it is important to initiate it promptly upon receiving an unconditional acceptance letter from your chosen educational institution.

2. Lack of financial aid if you decide to return home

It can be a bit tricky if you decide to return home after studying in Ireland. Unfortunately, you might not have access to the same level of financial support that you would if you were studying in your home country. So, make sure to plan your finances accordingly.

3. Heavy rush-hour traffic

This peak time of the day is characterized by heavy traffic, often resulting in a feeling of being at a standstill if you’re traveling to your university.

If you tend to leave for your classes at the last minute, brace yourself for potentially being stuck in this traffic for hours.

Criteria for Selecting the Best Universities for Foreign Students

So, you’re on the hunt for the best universities in Ireland that cater to international students. Well, we have come up with some handy factors to guide you in making the perfect choice. Let’s jump in!

1. Academic Reputation and Rankings

To gauge the excellence of the universities you’re interested in, you should check out their rankings and academic reputation. There’s a ton of Irish universities that rank highly in the global scene, so there are plenty of options to choose from.

To help you make a more informed decision and find the perfect fit for you, take a look at the university league tables to get a sense of their general performance.

2. International Student Support Services

From the moment you set foot on campus, you must have access to a range of support services tailored specifically for international students. Whether you need assistance with visas, housing, or just adjusting to a new culture, these services are here to help you navigate through any challenge.

It’s also important to check out all sorts of fun events and activities to make sure you make the most of your sojourn as a foreign student on the Emerald Isle.

Check out the clubs you can join, attend cultural festivals, and make friends from all corners of the world.

3. Programs and Courses

Choose your course or program carefully when deciding on which universities to apply for.

In general, Irish universities operate independently and have their own governing bodies. They provide a wide range of degree programs, including bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees.

If you’re into numbers, coding, money matters, or saving lives, universities in Ireland offer their top programs and courses such as Business Analytics, Data Analytics/Big Data, Computer Science, Software Engineering, Banking & Finance, and Medicine.

Be smart about your choice and don’t rush into it! Take your time to find a university that offers programs that totally match your interests and career goals.

4. Campus Facilities and Resources

When choosing the right university in Ireland, don’t forget to scope out the facilities and resources the campus has to offer such as the following:

• state-of-the-art labs
• fully-equipped libraries
• good research center
• student clubs and societies
• sports hall

5. Internship and Career Opportunities

 Choose a university in Ireland that is approved by the Department of Education and Skills, so you can be totally eligible to apply for internships.

Make sure to sign up for your university’s careers newsletter. It’s going to be your insider’s guide to what’s happening in the job market and beyond.

In Ireland, interns usually bring home around 29,500 EUR a year, which works out to be about 15.13 EUR an hour.

If you’re just starting out, entry-level positions typically pay around 25,000 EUR annually. But if you stick around and gain some experience, you could be earning up to 60,840 EUR per year!

6. Cost of Living

On average, you’re looking at shelling out around 12,000 EUR per year for the basics. That covers things like food, rent, laundry, electricity, phone plan, books, medicine, and all those other necessary bits. Just keep that budget in mind and you’ll be fine.

While this amount doesn’t defray tuition fees, it can also cover travel and other social expenses.

Transportation costs in Ireland are pretty reasonable, so you won’t have to stress about emptying your pockets.

If you team up with some roommates or crash with an Irish family, you can save even more cash and keep your wallet happy!

List of Top Universities in Ireland for Foreign Students

If you’re an international student planning to study in Ireland, we’ve got a list of the top Irish universities for you to choose from. Whether you fancy a cozy campus surrounded by lush countryside or a bustling city vibe, Ireland has something to match your coveted lifestyle.

1. Trinity College Dublin (TCD)

• Trinity College Dublin, or TCD, is not just any old university — it’s the best in Ireland and one of the oldest in the world, dating back to 1592!

• This university is a dream come true for students who want to have it all — excellent-quality academics, plus a vibrant cultural and social scene.

• Trinity College Dublin set you up for success, equipping you with all the skills and knowledge you need to conquer the world.

• It takes pride in nurturing the next generation of go-getters. In fact, according to the Pitchbook Universities Report, they have produced more entrepreneurs than any other university in Europe.

• A whopping 95% of Trinity College Dublin graduates either land amazing jobs or continue their studies within 6 months of completing their time here.

• TCD is a popular choice if you’re looking to enroll in courses like English language and literature, history, pharmacy, and nursing.

• Its most notable alumni include Niels Bohr, Isaac Newton, Oscar Wilde, Jonathan Swift, Bram Stoker, Samuel Beckett, George Berkley, and many more.

• Annual tuition fee for international students ranges from 20,600 EUR to 37,600 EUR.

2. University College Dublin (UCD)

• University College Dublin started off as the Catholic University of Ireland, then became the Royal University, and finally settled on UCD in 1908. It later became a part of the National University of Ireland (NUI) as one of its colleges.

• In 1997, UCD gained its independence within the NUI’s loose federal setup, and that’s where it is today. So, when you graduate from UCD, you’ll proudly receive a degree from the National University of Ireland.

• University College Dublin, or UCD, is ranked among the top 1% of all universities worldwide.

• UCD aims to be known worldwide as Ireland’s best global university, offering a wide range of subjects and making a real impact with their research and innovation. It provides its students a complete and fulfilling educational experience with its diverse community.

• UCD ranks high in some areas like petroleum engineering, library and information science, veterinary medicine, and sports-related courses.

• Among UCD’s famous graduates include James Joyce, Brian O’Driscoll, Maeve Binchy, Roddy Doyle, Brendan Gleeson, and many more.

• Tuition fee per academic is around 16,800 EUR to 25,600 EUR.

3. Dublin City University (DCU)

• Located on the Northside of Dublin, Ireland, Dublin City University (DCU) has been providing both Irish and international students with flexible higher education options since 1975.

• It started off as the National Institute for Higher Education, Dublin, and welcomed its first batch of students in 1980.

• Fast forward to September 1989, DCU was upgraded to full-blown university status (alongside NIHE Limerick, now known as the University of Limerick).

• You can find Ireland’s first ever Starbucks café at the DCU campus, located in the Pavilion building. The Main Restaurant is also right there. There are several other cafés and restaurants on-site.

• DCU ranks high in programs in Political Science, Journalism, Communications, Architecture, Education, and Business.

• Annual tuition fee for non-EU students is 14,500 EUR.

4. University of Galway

• The University of Galway has a long history. In 1849, it went by the name Queen’s College Galway. Then, in 1908, it got a makeover and became University College Galway, or UCG. In 1997, it underwent yet another transformation, this time being renamed the National University of Ireland Galway. In 2022, it got a fresh new title and is now known as the University of Galway.

• The University of Galway has gained worldwide recognition for its expertise as a research-led institution, placing great importance on interdisciplinary research programs.

• Some of the popular courses at the university include Arts and Humanities, Social Sciences, Business, Engineering, Law, and Medicine.

• Some of the most notable alumni of the University of Galway include Enda Kenny, Michael D. Higgins, Martin Sheen, Alice Perry, Mike McCormack, and Sabina Higgins.

• Tuition fee for international students per academic year ranges from 7,000 EUR to 13,000 EUR.

5. University of Limerick

• The National Institute for Higher Education, Limerick came into existence in 1972. In 1989, it officially became a full-fledged university thanks to the University of Limerick Act 1989. It was the first university to be established in Ireland since the country gained independence in 1922, with the Dublin City University following later on the very same day.

• Nestled in the picturesque city of Limerick, Ireland, the University of Limerick’s campus is not only beautiful but also very safe. Getting to and from Dublin is a breeze with convenient transportation options.

• UL houses leading research centers in Ireland, including the Nexus Innovation Centre, where researchers and entrepreneurs come together and support each other’s ventures.

• The University of Limerick boasts several top-ranking courses such as Literature, Law, Chemical Engineering, Material Sciences, and Business.

• Its notable alumni include Pat Cox (former President of the European Parliament) and Nika Gilauri (former Prime Minister of Georgia).

• International students are expected to pay between 4,000 EUR to 19,000 EUR annually, depending on the program chosen.

6. Queen’s University Belfast (QUB)

• Queen’s University Belfast, called Queen’s or QUB for short, is a public research university located in Belfast, Northern Ireland. The university opened its doors four years after it got its charter under the name “Queen’s College, Belfast” in 1845.

• It is part of the prestigious Russell Group, which makes it one of the top 24 research-intensive universities in the United Kingdom. The university’s researchers are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities to take on some of the biggest global challenges such as food, health, technology, and conflict.

• Performing Arts, Nursing, and Pharmacy and Pharmacology are the courses at QUB that have ranked in the World Top 100 by QS World Rankings in 2022.

• QUB’s famous alumni include actors Liam Neeson and Stephen Rea, Nobel Prize winner poet Seamus Heaney, former president of Ireland Mary McAleese, and former Prime Minister of Northern Ireland Lord Faulkner of Downpatrick.

• Tuition fees for foreign students range from 17,900 GBP to 22,000 GBP.

7. University College Cork (UCC)

• University College Cork, or UCC, takes pride in being Ireland’s first 5-star university. It offers a study-abroad experience that brings together Irish history and culture, the best elements of research, academic excellence, student safety and well-being, and a thriving campus atmosphere.

• It was established as part of a trio of Queen’s Colleges in Belfast, Cork, and Galway in 1845. With the Irish Universities Act of 1908, it then transformed into University College, Cork.

• High-ranking courses at UCC include Nursing, Law, Agriculture & Forestry, Pharmacy & Pharmacology, and Anatomy & Physiology.

• UCC has produced a number of notable alumni including politicians and public servants, poets and authors, doctors, mathematicians, business people, athletes, and many more.

• Annual tuition fee for international students range from 16,700 EUR to 18,800 EUR.

8. Ulster University

• Ulster University was originally founded as Magee College in 1865. Some 119 years later, the University of Ulster was born through the merger of two institutions: the Ulster Polytechnic and the New University of Ulster located in Coleraine.

• Ulster University takes pride in being a truly global community, with more than 2,000 international students hailing from over 80 diverse countries. Its alumni network stretches far and wide, with alumni representing 121 countries.

• Courses at Ulster University that are ranked among the top courses in the world include Business Management, Marketing, and Accounting & Finance.

• Notable alumni include writers and poets, artists and photographers, film & media personalities, musicians, politicians, and others.

• Tuition fee per academic year for non-EU students is 15,840 EUR.

9. Maynooth University

• Maynooth University traces its origins back to the secular faculties of St. Patrick’s College, Maynooth, which was founded way back in 1795 but is now a separate entity. It is a vibrant institution situated in Maynooth, County Kildare, Ireland.

• Established under the Universities Act of 1997, MU held the title of Ireland’s youngest university until 2919, when Technological University Dublin was established.

• The most popular and highly-ranked courses are Business and Economics.

• Its most famous alumni include two former Irish rulers Éamon de Valera and Bertie Ahern, dramatist and short story writer Brian Patrick Friel, and Nobel laureate John Hume.

• For residents of the UK, EU, and Switzerland tuition is free. For everyone else, the tuition fee is is between 12,000 EUR to 25,000 EUR annually.