Ireland

Ireland has one of the best education systems in the world and there are many reasons to study here. Schools and universities are globally connected and graduates of Irish education institutions have access to opportunities in many different careers all over the world.

Ireland is an island nation on the westernmost edge of Europe. It is the continent’s second largest island after Great Britain. And it is known for its beautiful green countryside, fascinating history and friendly people.

Education

The standard of education in Ireland is among the world’s best, with seven top-level universities and a focus on research and global collaboration.

People and culture

The Irish are proud of their country and their culture and they are happy to share it with you. Although it’s a relatively small country, (with a population of around five million), more than 70 million people around the world claim to have Irish heritage. So once you’ve lived in Ireland, you’ll have friends all over the world.

Safety

Ireland is a safe and tolerant place to live and ranks consistently in the world’s Top 20 countries for quality of life, peace and human development. It’s also a young country, with a third of the population under 25 years old. Study in Ireland and you’ll join more than 35,000 international students from 161 countries who love where they live.

Career

Studying in Ireland can give you a great start to a successful career. Ireland ranks highly for quality of education – education that meets the needs of a competitive economy, plus knowledge transfer between universities and international companies. It’s also a lot of fun.

City life

Major cities here are smaller and easy to get around in than other large cities worldwide, yet they are vibrant and culturally sophisticated.

Top five universities in Ireland

Want to study at one of the best universities in Ireland? Data collected by the Times Higher Education’s World University Rankings 2019 present the top-five universities in the Republic of Ireland.

1. Trinity College Dublin

Looking for the Irish version of University of Cambridge or University of Oxford? Study a research-led curriculum taught by world-class academics in the heart of Dublin.

2. University College Dublin (UCD)

UCD is ranked within the top 1% of higher education institutions worldwide. Learn from internationally connected experts inside UCD’s award-winning student facilities. Study at UCD.

3. Royal College of Surgeons In Ireland

Ireland’s only specialist health sciences higher education institution, RCSI is home to the Ireland’s largest medical school, as well as globally recognised health practitioners.

4. University College Cork

Study Ireland’s first five-star university and you’ll be involved in innovative interdisciplinary research, as well as work-based clinical and international placements.

5. National University of Ireland, Galway

Called ‘the most charming city’ by the New York Times, NUI Galway’s international reputation and unique programs span the creative arts to medical technology.

Why study in Ireland

Quality education

Ireland’s education system is among the best you’ll find. Universities in Ireland rank in the top 3% world-wide and graduates from Irish universities are attractive to employers the world over.

Research opportunities

Irish universities are in the top 1% of research institutions in the world. Some of the world’s biggest and best companies have key strategic research facilities here and international students can join research programmes that are driving innovation and changing lives worldwide.

Career opportunities

Many leading global companies are located in Ireland and career opportunities are plentiful. It is especially good for careers in Software Development and IT, Engineering, Financial Services, Food and Agriculture, Medtech and Pharma.

Growing economy

The Irish economy is one of the fastest growing in the Eurozone and the 6th most competitive in the world. It is an entrepreneurial country with global connections.

English language

English is the main language spoken and the global language of business and technology. Knowing how to read and write in English increases your marketability and gives you a big advantage if you’re aiming for a job in a multinational company or an English-speaking country.

History and culture

Ireland is full of museums, cathedrals, parks and monuments and is famous for its contribution to arts, literature, film and music.

Close to Europe

Ireland is close to major European capitals and just a short flight away, so you can easily explore the rest of Europe while you’re here.

Stay back visasThe Irish government offers a one-year stay back visa for Bachelors graduates and up to two years for Masters graduates. Many international students stay in Ireland after finishing their studies and start their careers here.