Study in Ireland for International Students

Ireland's top-notch colleges and welcoming culture make it one of the most attractive places for international students. The country provides the ideal fusion of excellent education, a lively student community and promising career opportunities.  

Discover the best institutions, tuition, scholarships, visa requirements and what it's like to be an international student in Ireland. ational students in Ireland 

Why study in Ireland? 

Ireland is more than just beautiful scenery and historic castles. It is a contemporary, knowledge-based economy that places a high priority on innovation, research and education. This explains why international students love it: 

• Post-study work visas: Undergraduates may remain for 12 months and postgraduates for 24 months under the Third Level Graduate Scheme (Stamp 1G).  

• Internationally recognised education: Trinity College Dublin and UCD are ranked in the QS Top 200, and Irish colleges often place in the top 3% globally. 

• Hub for global companies: Google, Facebook (Meta), Microsoft, LinkedIn, Pfizer, and Intel are all based in Dublin, providing students with abundant internship and career development options. 

• Welcoming culture: Irish people are warm and friendly. The country is frequently described as "a second home" by international students. 

• Gateway to Europe: Ireland's membership in the EU makes it easy for students to travel, study, and work across Europe. 

• English-speaking country: In Ireland, you won’t face a language barrier — English is widely spoken, making both daily life and academics much easier. 

Ireland’s top ranking in international education satisfaction surveys makes it easy to see why more African students are choosing it as their study destination.  

Best Universities in Ireland for international students 

Ireland has a reputation for being home to some of Europe's top universities. Below is a short summary of the best universities for overseas students.  

Cost of living and studying in Ireland 

Studying in Ireland is an investment and knowing what to budget for is important. Tuition fees: 

• Undergraduate: €9,000 – €25,000 annually (based on the university and program). 

• Postgraduate: €10,000 – €35,000 annually. 
  Medicine and business programs are typically on the higher end. 

Cost of living: On average, students need €39,708–€67,020 annually.

• Health insurance: Around €500–€700 annually 

• Food: €250–€400 monthly 

• Miscellaneous (internet, phone, leisure): €150–€250 monthly 

• Rent: €1,746–€2,173 monthly (cheaper outside Dublin) 

• Transport: €67 monthly (student discounts available) 
   

Source:  www.expatistan.com  

Scholarships for international students in Ireland 

To make studying more affordable, many scholarships are available for international students: 

• Walsh Fellowships (Agriculture/Research): €24,000 annually for PhD research.  

• University Scholarships: TCD, UCD, UCC, UL and other universities provide merit-based or need-based grants. 

• RCSI International Student Awards: Centred on students studying medicine. 

• Government of Ireland International Education Scholarships: €10,000 stipend + full tuition waiver. 

• IDP Partner Scholarships: Available through selected institutions. 

Scholarships can be competitive, so apply as soon as possible and ensure your application stands out.  

How to apply to universities in Ireland? 

Applying is straightforward but requires preparation. 

1. Read about the university and the course you want to take. 

2. Visit the university's website to review the precise entrance criteria. 

3. Collect the necessary paperwork, including transcripts, a CV, a statement of purpose and recommendation letters. 

4. Submit your application online through the university portal. 

5. If necessary, pay the application fee. 

6. Wait for your offer letter. 

7. Accept your offer and pay the tuition deposit. 

8. Submit a student visa (Stamp 2). 

 You don’t have to walk this road alone! Reach out to an IDP counsellor to start your application today for free!  

Life as an international student in Ireland  

Irish student life blends world-class academics with vibrant cultural experiences. You can expect: 

• Festivals: Ireland is full of colour and excitement, from St. Patrick's Day to the Galway International Arts Festival. 

• Campus activities: You can easily make friends through sports organisations, cultural societies and student unions. 

• Support services: Academic seminars, career counselling, offices for international students and other services are offered by universities. 

• Safety: One of the safest nations in Europe. 

• Multicultural environment: Studying with classmates from around the world will extend your view of the world. 
   

Work opportunities for international students in Ireland 

Ireland encourages foreign students to work while they are studying and after they graduate:  

After graduation: After completing a master’s degree in Ireland, international students can apply for the Stamp 1G visa, which allows them to remain in Ireland for up to 24 months to seek employment or apply for a work permit.  

For students who complete an undergraduate program, the Third Level Graduate Scheme (Stamp 1G) is valid for 12 months, giving them time to find a job or transition to a work visa. It’s designed to help graduates gain valuable post-study work experience in Ireland and potentially progress to long-term employment. 

While studying:  

Students can work up to 20 hours a week during the school term and 40 hours over the holidays. In 2025, the minimum wage was around €12.70 per hour. There is a strong demand for jobs in education, retail, cafés, and on campuses.  

High employability for graduates is guaranteed by Ireland's robust economy in technology, finance, engineering, and pharmaceuticals. Many international students secure positions with multinational companies based in Dublin, Cork, and Galway.   

Start your journey to study in Ireland today with IDP. Our expert counsellors will walk you through everything, from choosing the best universities to applying for scholarships and securing your visa.   

FAQS 

How much does it cost to study in Ireland? 
Between €9,000 – €35,000 per year, depending on the program and university. 

 Is Ireland good for Nigerian students? 
Yes. Ireland is safe, English-speaking and offers excellent career opportunities after graduation.  

How much bank balance is required for an Ireland student visa? 
You’ll need at least €10,000 per year to cover living expenses, plus proof of tuition fee payment. 

Source: www.irishimmigration.ie 

Can I work while studying in Ireland? 
Yes. Students can work part-time during studies and full-time during holidays.