Why Study in Ireland

Why Study in Ireland?

The neighbor to the west of the UK – the second-most popular destination for international students – Ireland has witnessed a 25% increase in international students since 2012. In language studies, alone, Ireland is home to 119,000 students hailing from international destinations. The country holds innumerable opportunities for students and uncounted reasons for their interest in the country with a rich history and deep sense of culture. So, why is Ireland so popular and why should you consider it as your location for international studies?

Here are 5 reasons international students should be applying to universities in Ireland:

Affordable Living

Ireland might be one of the closest neighbors to the UK, sharing borders over ocean and land with one of the most expensive countries on earth, but it remains a relatively affordable option for students and international travelers coming to the country. The cost of living in Ireland [link to Cost of Living in Ireland article] is significantly lower than many other premier destinations in Europe and the US, and it is estimated that students will spend between €7,000 and €12,000 annually outside of their education.

The most expensive city in Ireland is Limerick, ranked 32^nd in the world, but the country’s most popular and populous city, Dublin, falls at 46^th, beneath London and many cities in the US. When it comes to education, specifically, tuition and fees vary for academic programs. Luckily, many Irish program fees are all-inclusive and will cover tuition, housing, insurance, cultural activities, and any number of semesterly excursions — giving students their money’s worth, and more.

High-Quality Universities

Universities across the relatively small country of Ireland rank impressively high on an international scale, making the country one of the most popular destinations for international students from all backgrounds and cultures. These universities are set in a range of jaw-dropping backdrops, from beautiful countrysides spotted with castles to ocean-front properties overlooking the sea, and of course in some of the most historical cities in the world.

Ireland’s education system boasts 7 public universities, all of which rank within the world’s top 100 according to QS World University Rankings. It is also home to a myriad of top-notch private institutions, colleges, and universities. The schools are all diverse, ranging from small, rural institutions to massive urban universities. Whatever a student is looking for in a study destination, Ireland will provide it for them in one of its many world-class institutions, such as Dublin Institute of Technology.

World’s Leading Companies

Students often consider the job market of the country to which they choose to take their studies. This is particularly good news for those interested in the study opportunities Ireland has to offer. The country’s world-renowned universities have attracted some of the best students from around the planet. Seemingly following them, major international companies have set up offices in many of Ireland’s major cities, most prominently in Dublin.

Tech giants such as Google, Facebook, and Twitter all have offices in the country, alongside an impressive 9 of the world’s top 10 pharmaceutical companies. Beyond this, over 700 US companies now have locations across Ireland, which means that students – especially those in pharmacy and technology – are going to be faced with a wealth of opportunities post-graduation.

Center of Culture

Despite the country’s small size, Ireland has always had a reputation for being home to a higher-than-average proportion of cultural impact. Prominent scholars, authors, and poets such as James Joyce, George Bernard Shaw, and Oscar Wilde have all called the country home, and this fact has helped shaped the culture of the country over the years. Dublin’s streets are brimming with artistic and literary nooks, from the National Museum to the Hugh Lane Gallery.

Beyond Intellectual and artistic pursuits, the country is absolutely fanatic about its sports. Ireland is home to some of the best when it comes to football and rugby, and even hosts its own assortment of Gaelic games. The famous pub culture of the country extends onto the field, which is alive with competition, camaraderie, and excitement.

Natural Beauty

Known as the “Emerald Island,” Ireland is home to hundreds of awe-inspiring sites, views, and experiences. Plus, since the island is so small, you are only ever a few hours’ drive from outstanding scenery – and odds are you’ll stop along the way to see something you didn’t plan for or expect. In major cities, beautiful parks – like the Phoenix Park – and rivers carve through the cityscape.

Beyond city limits, the country has even more to offer. From the stunning lakes and mountains of The Ring of Kerry to the unearthly landscape of the Burren in Clare and the rugged Atlantic coast of Donegal, the list of incredible natural spots is almost endless. Of course, don’t forget to visit the world-famous Cliffs of Moher.