Highlights:
- Universities: Trinity College Dublin, University College Dublin, University of Galway, University College Cork, and University of Limerick are some of the best universities in Ireland. Eight Irish universities are featured in the 2024 QS World University Rankings, with six in the top 500.
- Tuition fees: Undergraduate tuition fees start at 9,750 EUR and postgraduate tuition fees start at 12,000 EUR per year
- International students: Over 35,000 international students from 161 countries study in Ireland. As per recent reports from the Ministry of External Affairs, 5,000 Indian students are currently studying in Ireland.
- Admissions: Admission is based on previous academic records and English proficiency scores (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or DET). Application fees range from 35 to 55 EUR in the majority of the top university in Ireland
- Popular programs: History, Computer Science, and Business at Trinity College Dublin; Engineering and Medicine at University College Dublin; and Business and Engineering at University of Limerick
- Job Outcomes: High-paying roles include Surgeons, Judges, Lawyers and Bank Managers. As per Statista, the overall employment rate in Ireland is 74%
Best Universities in Ireland include Trinity College Dublin, University College Dublin, University of Galway, University College Cork, University of Limerick among others. In the QS 2024 ranking, 8 Irish Universities are regarded as good universities in Ireland, including the aforementioned. At the majority of the top universities in Ireland, undergraduate tuition fees start at 9,750 EUR per year. The tuition fees for masters programs range between 12,000 and 30,000 EUR per year depending on the university and chosen degree. The yearly estimated cost of living in Ireland comes to around 11,829 EUR. For admissions, Irish universities charge non-refundable application fees of around 35 to 55 EUR. Admission is based on past academics, IELTS, TOEFL, PTE or DET scores. The top 5 universities in Ireland are as follows
Why Study in Ireland?
If you are an international applicant seeking to study in Ireland, some essential points that you might want to take into consideration are as follows
- According to US News and World Report, the Irish Education system is the world's 20th best education system.
- More than 35,000 international students from over 161 countries across the globe are studying in Ireland
- As per the recent employment reports, about 2.78 million people were employed in the country in the third quarter of 2023 with an overall employment rate of around 74%
- Top business schools in Ireland like Trinity Business School, Cranfield School of Management and others have low fee structures and are famous for their research facilities and opportunities. MBA tuition fees in Ireland range between 12,500 and 36,990 EUR
- Students with a Visa Stamp 2 may qualify for the Third Level Graduate Scheme. This scheme allows international students to remain in Ireland after their studies for a period of 12 months
- As an international student, you are allowed to work up to 20 hours a week during the academic year and up to 40 hours a week on holidays (summer and winter holidays). This part-time work opportunity helps students to pay timely fees and bear the living expenses.
- According to QS Best Students Cities 2024 ranking, Dublin ranks #32 in the world. Galway, Cork, Maynooth, Limerick, and Waterford are some of the best student cities in Ireland.
Table of Content
Top Ranked Universities in Ireland
Ireland is home to 8 universities in the QS World University Rankings, six of which can be found in the top 500. Details of top-ranked universities in Ireland are tabulated below
| Irish Rank | Global Rank 2024 | Best Colleges in Ireland | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | #81 in QS | Trinity College Dublin | 35% |
| #2 | #171 in QS | University College Dublin | 20% |
| #3 | #289 in QS | University of Galway | 86% |
| #4 | #292 in QS | University College Cork | 52% |
| #5 | #426 in QS | University of Limerick | 70% |
| #6 | #436 in QS | Dublin City University | 42% |
| #7 | #801-850 in QS | Maynooth University | 73% |
| #8 | #851-900 in QS | Technological University of Dublin | 56% |
Popular Programs in the Best Universities in Ireland
Ireland's renowned education system, marked by high academic standards and globally recognised universities, attracts students seeking quality education. But what are the top courses to study in Ireland? There are over 1,000 Master’s programs in Ireland, completely taught in English.
| Best Colleges in Ireland | Popular Streams | Annual Tuition Fees in EUR |
|---|---|---|
| Trinity College Dublin | History, Computer Science & Information Technology, Biology, Performing Arts and Philosophy | 22,350 |
| University College Dublin | Engineering, Business and Management, Social Sciences and Health and Medicine | 29,100 |
| University of Galway | Engineering, Clinical Medicine, Biology, Arts and Psychology | 20,000 |
| University College Cork | Nursing, Law, Pharmacy, and Agriculture | 18,900 |
| University of Limerick | Business, Mathematics, Economics and Engineering | 16,900 |
| Dublin City University | Information Technology, Business, Engineering and Communications | 16,500 |
| Maynooth University | Mathematics, Law, Computer Science and Chemistry | 16,000 |
| Technological University of Dublin | Mechanical Engineering, Accounting, Computer Science, and Communication Engineering | 11,500 |
Note: 1 EUR= 90.53 INR as of May 20, 2024
Top Colleges in Ireland for STEM Programs
STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. Here we have curated a few popular universities for these fields of study.
| STEM Subjects | Top Colleges in Ireland |
|---|---|
| Science | Trinity College Dublin University College Dublin Dublin City University University of Galway |
| Technology | Technological University Dublin Technological University of the Shannon: Midlands Atlantic Technological University South East Technological University |
| Engineering | University of Limerick University College Cork Technological University Dublin Trinity College Dublin |
| Mathematics | National University of Ireland Maynooth University University of Limerick Griffith College Dublin |
Top Universities in Ireland for Masters
The tuition fees for Masters in Ireland fall between 12,000 and 30,000 EUR per year depending on the university, excluding the living costs. Check out the below table to know about the university-popular programs and their cut-off scores.
| Top Colleges in Ireland | Popular Program | Cut-off Scores |
|---|---|---|
| Trinity College Dublin | MS in Management | IELTS: 6.5 PTE: 63 |
| University College Dublin | MS in Computer Science | IELTS: 6.5 PTE: 63 |
| University College Cork | MS in Computing Science | IELTS: 6.5 DET:120 |
| Dublin City University | MS in Computing | IELTS: 6.5 |
| University of Limerick | MA in Business Management | PTE: 61 TOEFL: 90 |
| Maynooth University | MS in Data Science and Analytics | IELTS: 6.5 PTE: 58 DET: 110 |
| Technological University Dublin | Master of Architecture | IELTS: 6.5 PTE: 62 |
| National University of Ireland | MA in Data Analytics | PTE: 59 TOEFL: 85 |
| Smurfit Graduate Business School | MBA | IELTS: 7.0 GMAT: 520 |
| Dublin City University Business School | MS in International Accounting | IELTS: 6.5 |
| Waterford Institute of Technology | MS in Construction and Project Management | IELTS: 6.5 PTE: 62 |
| Griffith College Dublin | MBA in International Business | GMAT: 650 TOEFL: 90 PTE: 59 |
Admission Requirements of the Top Universities in Ireland for MS
To be eligible for admission to the top universities in Ireland for MS, you need to have the following.
- GPA of 3.0 or above
- 3 to 4-year Bachelor's Degree in related areas of study or equivalent.
- An SOP of around 1,000 words is highly critical during admission interviews
- English proficiency scores like TOEFL or IELTS
- Scanned copies of official transcripts duly translated into English
- Work experience of 3 to 5 years
- GMAT score between 550 and 600 or an equivalent GRE score
- Updated resume or CV
- 2 or 3 LORs for Masters in Ireland
- Irish student visa
Top Colleges of Ireland for Undergraduate Programs
Some popular undergraduate programs at the top colleges in Ireland and their cut-off scores are presented below
| Top Colleges of Ireland | Popular Programs | Cut-off Scores |
|---|---|---|
| Trinity College Dublin | BA in Computer Engineering | IELTS score: 6.5 PTE: 63 DET: 120 |
| University College Dublin | BSc in Computer Science | IELTS: 6.5 PTE: 63 |
| University College Cork | BS in Architecture | IELTS: 6.5 DET score: 120 |
| Dublin City University | BBA in Business Studies | PTE: 63 TOEFL: 92 |
| University of Limerick | B.Eng in Architecture | TOEFL: 90 PTE: 61 |
| Maynooth University | BSc in Computer Science | IELTS: 6.0 PTE: 50 DET: 100 |
| Technological University Dublin | Bachelor of Architecture | IELTS: 6.0 |
| National University of Ireland | BS in Information Science and Information | PTE: 59 TOEFL score: 85 |
| Dublin City University Business School | B.B.A Business Studies | TOEFL: 92 PTE: 63 |
| Waterford Institute of Technology | B.Arch | IELTS: 6.0 |
| Griffith College Dublin | BA in Interior Architecture | PTE score: 42 TOEFL: 79 |
Admission Requirements for Best Colleges in Ireland for Undergraduates
To be eligible for admission to undergraduate programs at the good colleges in Ireland, you need to have the following.
- Overall average of 80% - 85% in six subjects on Grade XII
- A language other than English, and Mathematics must be taken as a subject up to Grade X.
- High school diploma with SAT or ACT scores
- Irish student visa
Ireland Student Visa
If you are planning to study for more than 3 months, you will need to get a study visa to Ireland. You will have to provide English or Irish translations of documents that are in other languages. These documents are required to successfully obtain a visa:
- Filled out and signed application form
- Copy of current and previous passports
- Letter of application with contact details
- Letter of acceptance from the college
- Proof of educational history
- Proof of fee payment
- Language proficiency test score
- Financial statements
- Private Medical Insurance
- Birth certificate, if under 18 years
- Proof of consent from guardians, if under 18
- Proof of accommodation in Ireland, if under 18
Note: After receiving the acceptance letter from the university, you can apply for an Ireland Students Visa. The Student Visa Fee in Ireland is 100 EUR
Top Paying Professions After Studying at the Top Colleges of Ireland
Ireland is ranked as 3rd safest country in the world, by Global Peace Index. The country offers an average annual salary of 48,000 EUR. Here, we have listed a few popular jobs in Ireland that you can get after studying at the top 10 universities in Ireland.
| Job Roles | Average Annual Salary in EUR |
|---|---|
| Surgeon | 259000 |
| Judge | 124000 |
| Lawyer | 120000 |
| Bank Manager | 132000 |
| Orthodontist | 62,200 |
| College Professor | 85,400 |
| Pilot | 103,000 |
| Marketing Director | 117000 |
Note: 1 EUR= 90.53 INR as of May 20, 2024
The best universities in Ireland for international students offer good returns as the tuition fees are comparatively less. You can also benefit from the Centenary Scholarship Program which waives complete one-year tuition fees. For popular programs, requirements and other details about the top universities in Ireland for international students, you can consider the above.
FAQs
Ques: Which are the top universities in Ireland?
Ans: The top universities in Ireland include Trinity College Dublin (TCD), University College Dublin (UCD), National University of Ireland, Galway (NUIG), University College Cork (UCC), and Dublin City University (DCU).
Ques: What are the main criteria for international students to get admitted to Irish universities?
Ans: International students typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, proof of English proficiency (such as IELTS or TOEFL scores), and may also need to meet specific academic requirements for their chosen course. Some programs may require additional documents such as a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and a resume.
Ques: How much does it cost to study at an Irish university?
Ans: Tuition fees for international students can range from 10,000 to 25,000 EUR per year, depending on the university and program. Additionally, students should budget for living expenses, which can be around 10,000 to 15,000 EUR annually.
Ques: Are there scholarships available for international students in Ireland?
Ans: There are several scholarships available for international students, including the Government of Ireland International Education Scholarships, university-specific scholarships, and scholarships from other organizations. It’s advisable to check each university’s website for specific scholarship opportunities.
Ques: What are the accommodation options for students in Ireland?
Ans: Accommodation options include on-campus student residences, private rented accommodation, and homestays. On-campus housing is convenient but limited and can be competitive, so it’s recommended to apply early. Off-campus options provide more flexibility but require careful planning and budgeting.
Ques: What is the student visa process for Ireland?
Ans: International students from non-EU/EEA countries need a student visa. The process involves applying online, providing required documents (such as proof of acceptance to a course, financial statements, and proof of English proficiency), and attending a visa appointment at the nearest Irish consulate or embassy.
Ques: What is the quality of life like for students in Ireland?
Ans: Ireland offers a high quality of life with a rich cultural heritage, vibrant cities, and beautiful landscapes. Students can enjoy a range of social and recreational activities, access to quality healthcare, and a friendly and welcoming community. Ireland is also known for its safety and high standard of living.
Ques: Can international students work while studying in Ireland?
Ans: International students on a student visa can work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) during term time and full-time (up to 40 hours per week) during holidays. This helps students gain work experience and supplement their finances.
Ques: What are the post-graduation opportunities for international students in Ireland?
Ans: Ireland offers a stay-back option where international students can remain in the country for up to two years after graduation to seek employment. The country has a strong economy with opportunities in sectors like technology, pharmaceuticals, finance, and more.
Ques: How can students apply to Irish universities?
Ans: Students can apply directly through each university’s website or use the Central Applications Office (CAO) for undergraduate programs. The application process typically involves submitting academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency, a personal statement, and any other required documents. Some postgraduate programs may have specific application portals.?
Found 2 universities
| CD Rank | College Info | Tuition Fees & living Cost(Avg.) | Top Courses | Ranking & Reviews |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 |  Trinity College Dublin, DublinDublin, Ireland34%Acceptance Rate | Tuition: $28.2K/Yr (€26,135/Yr)Living: $15K/Yr (€13,925/Yr)Admission | M.S ImmunologyIELTS6.5PTE62$25.9K/Yr Course duration: 1 year 1 More Program | |
| #2 |  Maynooth University, MaynoothKildare, Ireland73%Acceptance Rate | Tuition: $18.4K/Yr (€17,000/Yr)Admission | M.S Immunology and Global HealthIELTS6.5PTE63$18.4K/Yr Course duration: 1 year Programs |
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