Study in Ireland

Quick Facts

• Location: Western Europe

• Capital: Dublin

• Major Cities/Counties: Dublin, Cork, Limerick

• Main Languages: English and Irish

• Population: 4.59 million (2013 estimate)

• Area: 84,421 km² (32,595 sq mi)

• Currency: Euro (€)

• Government: Parliamentary democracy; Prime Minister (Taoiseach) and Deputy Prime Minister (Tánaiste)

• GDP: $61,606.48 USD (2016)

• Time Zone: UTC

Why Study in Ireland?

• Offers 1-year Master’s programs with 2-year post-study work visas.

• Home to 9 of the world’s top 10 pharmaceutical companies.

• Scholarships available up to 100% for deserving students.

• World’s largest exporter of software and top producer of pharmaceuticals and fine chemicals.

• Education system strongly linked to industry, innovation, and applied research.

• Young population – 40% under age 25.

• Irish government invests €782 million annually in higher education research.

• Hosts global tech leaders like Google, Facebook, Apple, Amazon, Uber, Pfizer, Abbott, and more.

• Collaborative ecosystem where universities, startups, and multinationals work together.

Living in Ireland

• Climate: Mild oceanic climate; avoids temperature extremes. Winters are dark early (4:30 pm during Nov–Feb).

• Culture & Traditions: Deep Gaelic roots with rich literature, music, folklore, art, and sports. Known for its literary greats and traditional music.

• Food: Staples include potatoes, oats, and dairy. Meals often simple, seasoned lightly with salt and pepper. Popular dishes include potato scones and hearty stews.

• Safety: Generally very safe, though students should take care at night in urban areas. Violent crime levels are low.

Money Matters (Tuition Fees & Living Costs)

• Undergraduate (UG): €10,000 – €15,000 per year

• Postgraduate (PG): €12,000 – €20,000 per year

• Living Expenses: Approx. €10,000 per year (depends on city and lifestyle)

Arrival & Accommodation

• On-Campus Housing: Available in many colleges, but competitive and often expensive.

• Private Rentals: Self-catering apartments; students pay monthly rent in advance.

• Homestay with Host Families: Offers independence along with family support and home comforts.

Welfare & Health

• Welfare: Student Welfare departments available in institutions offering support for mental health, sexual health, crisis support, and non-academic issues.

• Health System: Divided into public and private. Public services are overseen by the Health Service Executive (HSE). Hospitals include HSE hospitals, voluntary hospitals, and private hospitals.

Transport in Ireland

• Bus: Extensive and affordable network (public + private). Main way to reach smaller towns.

• Rail: Faster but limited; mainly connects major cities. Book tickets in advance during peak times.

• Dublin Transport: DART (coastal rail), Luas tram system, and buses.

• Car: Driving is common for reaching remote places.

• Taxi/Uber: Available but relatively expensive.

Traditions & Culture

• Gaelic culture mixed with modern European influences.

• Known for literature, theatre, folklore, music, and art.

• Irish music and dance are globally recognized.

Restricted Items to Bring to Ireland

• Firearms, ammunition, explosives, offensive weapons

• Indecent or obscene material

• Plants, bulbs, live or dead animals (including cats and dogs)

• Birds, poultry, endangered species

• Meat and meat products, hay, straw

• Controlled drugs (e.g., cannabis, cocaine, heroin, amphetamines)

Student Life & Preparation

• Welcome Week: Orientation with events (some compulsory) to help students settle in and make friends.

• Travel to University: Shuttle services available; trains and buses are common.

• Opening a Bank Account: Requires proof of identity (passport) and proof of address (university letter or rental contract).