Ireland- The Emerald Isle

Ireland is a peaceful country known for its welcoming nature and friendly citizens. Ireland is consistently ranked among the best 10 safe countries of the world in the Global Peace Index. You will find very friendly people around you with helping hands available everywhere. Their welcoming nature and positivity will amaze you and give you an enriching experience.

Although Irish is the primary official language, English is widely used and regarded as the country’s second official language. Needless to worry, you will not find yourself isolated. This attracts a large number of international students to Ireland.

Ireland has a reputation for having the topmost universities delivering high standard education. Their commitment to excellence and worldwide recognition make them a favourite study-abroad destination for international students.

Universities of Ireland focus on research programmes and collaborate with world leading organisations to deliver the best exposure to the industry. The government ensures the standard of education through the National Framework of Qualifications (NFF).

Education in Ireland is affordable when compared to other European countries. Irish universities have abundant short-term courses that save money and allow students to settle faster and advance in their careers. Tuition fees vary between universities. The Irish government has invested a huge amount to support and welcome international students. A plethora of scholarships is available to financially aid the students who are incapable of arranging the expense of the course. The opportunity to work part-time is also a great factor which will make your life better.

Irish universities offer various competent courses which open opportunities to be on the edge of the world. Courses are designed to fit you into the industry and give you an exemplary learning experience. Highly in-demand courses such as data science, Business analytics, Digital marketing, Law, construction, cyber security, Natural Sciences, Medicine enable you to secure a bright career.

Ireland has carved out an important position in the IT and pharmaceutical industry by being the European hub of over 1000 companies. Many world leaders like Apple, Google, IBM, HP, Pfizer are having their European headquarters in Ireland. This proves to be a great platform for students. Ireland is an attractive location promoting research and development. Many research facilities are based in Ireland, making it most suitable for students.

Many master degrees with 1-year duration are offered by universities which help the students to stay ahead of the race and settle. Apart from the usual 3-year undergraduate programmes, fast track degrees with a 2-year duration are also available. Students can customise the modules to suit their preferences.

Students who complete their masters can apply for a post-study work visa that allows them to stay up to 2 years. Bachelor honours degree students are entitled to stay up to 1 year after graduation.

International students can utilise the opportunity to work part-time i.e., 20 hours/ week. However, they can work full-time on holidays or during vacations.

Generally, those who possess employment permits should have lived in Ireland before applying for Permanent residency. Good news for students who have succeeded to maintain a great academic score and impressive work records-they can apply for PR after 2 years of stay.

Although Irish is the primary official language, English is widely used and regarded as the country’s second official language. Needless to worry, you will not find yourself isolated. This attracts a large number of international students to Ireland. 8 universities are supported by the state. These universities provide a broad range of undergraduate, postgraduate, doctoral degrees and research programmes in various subjects. These are autonomous institutions that are ranked consistently among the top 3% in the world.

These institutes focus on offering full-time courses and training programmes in the areas of engineering, science, business, music and linguistics. There are 14 institutes funded by the government. Course and credit procedures vary with institutions.

These colleges offer diplomas, undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, certificate programmes in a broad range of subjects. Courses are being offered in business studies, medicine, vocational training, art and design, law, rural development and music.

Typically, Full-time undergraduate degrees are three to four years long based on the field of study. Specialised fields like veterinary science, architecture will take 5 years of study. Credits and subjects are unique with each institution. An ordinary degree or Honours degree will be awarded depending on the programme you choose. The honours degree demands a high commitment to studies and hard work. An honours degree refers to a higher level of academic excellence. Work placement options are also offered as part of the course.

Postgraduate courses typically have a duration of one to two years. These degrees are focused on specialised learning in typical subject areas. Postgraduate degree options available in Ireland are Postgraduate Diploma, Masters Diploma or PhD. Courses involve a thesis with the normal course. Courses can also be research-based learning. PhD is typically a 3 years duration course.

Most of the prestigious educational institutions of Ireland are located in Dublin, Cork, Limerick. Galway, Maynooth. Trinity College, University College Dublin, National University of Ireland Galway, Waterford Institute of Technology, Dublin City University, Maynooth University, Cork Institute of Technology are some of the globally recognised universities of Ireland.

Application fees levied by different universities depends on the courses.

• Trinity College Dublin: €40 for MBA and €55 for other courses
• National University of Ireland Galway: €35 for postgraduate courses
• Dublin City University: €50 (PG)
• University College Cork: €45 for UG degrees & €50 for PG degrees
• University of Limerick: €35 (PG)

Ireland’s Higher Education Authority has organised this scholarship to support meritorious international students in all fields of study. Students who possess a strong academic record, excellent communication skills, good at extracurricular activities can apply for this scholarship. Selected students will be awarded €10,000 for one year of study. Around 60 scholarships are granted for UG, PG and doctoral degree students.

Postgraduate students in fields of food, environment, economics and rural development are eligible for this fellowship. €22,000 per student will be allowed for a course period of 2 years for MSc students and 4 years for PhD students.

Scholarship programme offered by University College Dublin for MSc in Management and MSc in International business students. €20500 is awarded to eligible students in which tuition fees will be covered.

100% and 50% tuition fee scholarships are awarded to deserving students who exhibit academic excellence.

Scholarship designed for Indian students at the National University of Ireland Galway.

Scholarship by Trinity College, Dublin for postgraduate students for the first year of study.

Quercus Taught Masters Academic Scholarships, Sir Peter Freyer Special Merit Scholarship, DIT Centenary Scholarship Programme, Kemmy Business School India Scholarships are some other scholarships. Our expert team can guide you to explain the scholarships you can apply for.

Quercus Taught Masters Academic Scholarships, Sir Peter Freyer Special Merit Scholarship, DIT Centenary Scholarship Programme, Kemmy Business School India Scholarships are some other scholarships. Our expert team can guide you to explain the scholarships you can apply for.

To encourage international students to stay back in Ireland and get exposure to the industry in their field of study. Students who graduated with level 8 or above are allowed to stay back for at least a year after their graduation through Ireland’s Third Level Graduate Scheme. They will receive a Stamp 1G on their visa, initially given for 12 months. If the student qualifies for an extension, they can extend the stamp. Level 8 graduates can work for 12 months. Students of level 9 and level 10 degrees are entitled to work for 24 months after graduation. Graduates who utilise this scheme can apply for a green card after 12 months. This is a golden opportunity for those who aspire to get global exposure and settle in Ireland. Level 7 graduates are allowed to stay back for up to 6 months.

General Work Permit:

• A non -EU citizen is licensed to work in Ireland for an employer
• Must have a salary above € 30,000
• Initially granted for 2 years, can be renewed for additional 3 years
• After 5 years, the work permit is issued indefinitely

Critical Skill employment permit:

• Permits skilled individuals to work in Ireland for an employer
• Must have a salary above € 60,000
• Initially granted for 2 years
• Immigrants can apply for a Stamp 4 to live and work in Ireland permanently.

Students who are awaiting results are entitled to apply for a visa with a conditional offer under the Approval in Principle Scheme (AIP). Students should apply for a visa at least 8 weeks before the dates of travel. Under this scheme, students who are admitted to an approved educational institution in Ireland need not pay the course fee to apply for a visa. Fees need to be paid after the visa is approved. Visa will be issued after the final year mark sheet and provisional degree certificate is submitted. Students must pay a minimum deposit of €6000.