Study Abroad Programs in Ireland

Ireland may be a small country, but it looms large in the minds of many around the world. As a result of unique cultural traditions, postcard-perfect scenery, and some of the region’s highest-regarded universities, students from around the world have been coming to Ireland for years to study abroad.

Spend just a little bit of time in this island nation and you’ll make friends to last a lifetime. It won’t take long to learn the true meaning of the Gaelic saying, "Céad míle fáilte!" or “one hundred thousand welcomes.”

Ireland is home to several highly ranked universities in vibrant cities perfect for student life. Here are some of the most popular cities for study abroad programs in Ireland.

Dublin

As the capital and largest city in Ireland, Dublin is a great location to go for your study abroad. In addition to its many world-renowned universities, such as Trinity College Dublin and University College Dublin, this hip cosmopolitan center is full of sights and activities to keep you busy while outside of the lecture hall.

Cork

Cork is Ireland’s second biggest city and is another excellent place to study abroad. Despite its size, Cork has retained a small-town feeling with just enough urban energy to keep it exciting. While in Cork, you’ll have easy access to the rugged and stunning Irish countryside for weekend trips and cozy pubs for meeting friends after class.

Galway

Not far from the dramatic Cliffs of Moher and Connemara National Park lies the small city of Galway, Ireland. While walking through the twisting alleyways lined with centuries-old houses and pubs, you may feel like you’ve been transported back to an earlier age. Indeed, in Galway, you’ll likely hear as much Gaelic as English. That’s not to say that Galway’s universities have been left in the past. Innovative programs at the arts-focused National University of Ireland (NUI), Galway provide unique and dynamic education for anyone looking to study abroad in Ireland.

Limerick

Best known as the grim and gritty setting of the memoir Angela’s Ashes, Limerick demands to be experienced in a new light. Charming yet understated, Limerick is fast developing while retaining a strong connection with its heritage. You’ll see new art galleries located in the shadow of the imposing 13th-century castle that dominates the city.

While here, you can receive an outstanding education in the liberal arts from Mary Immaculate College or study technology and engineering at the Limerick Institute of Technology, one of NASA’s research partners and Silicon Valley's industry partners.

While requirements may vary depending on the school, program, and location these are generally the steps you’ll need to follow to study abroad in Ireland.

• Research programs and universities. Look into study abroad options through direct enrollment or a program provider to weigh the pros and cons and potential savings.
• Prepare your application materials. Be sure to request your transcript and letters of recommendation well in advance. You may also be required to write a statement of purpose explaining why you chose Ireland for your study abroad and what your academic goals are.
• Apply for a visa. You may need to apply for a visa depending on your country of citizenship. However, US students do not need a study visa to study abroad in Ireland.
• Start budgeting & exploring scholarships. Research the costs associated with studying abroad in Ireland to create a realistic budget. Don’t forget to apply for scholarships and grants you may be eligible for.
• Prepare for your adventure overseas! Buy your ticket and pack your bags – you’re studying abroad in Ireland!

Learn about the cost of education in Ireland as well as ways to save money on tuition.

Average costs of tuition

While there are less costly places to study abroad in the world, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better value in an English-speaking country. Tuition for a semester through direct enrollment will likely cost between $5,000 to $12,000 USD for non-EU students. Master's programs may cost between $11,000 - $25,000 USD.

A semester abroad in Ireland through a third-party provider will cost between $18,000-$23,000 USD. While this is more expensive than enrolling in a university directly, provider programs usually include housing, support, excursions, and activities. The cost of rent is high in Ireland and accommodation is hard to find in cities like Dublin and Cork so this may be the best option for study abroad students.

Scholarships

Students can apply for scholarships and grants to help defray the overall costs of studying abroad in Ireland. Funding opportunities can be found through your university, nonprofits, government programs, and right here on GO!

Cost of living

Here are some of the monthly costs you can expect while living in Ireland as a student.

• Room in shared accomodation: $700-$1000
• Groceries: $175-$300
• Transportation: $60-$150
• Entertainment: $100-$250

The cost of living in Ireland has risen in recent years and affordable housing can be tricky to find, especially in Dublin. Be sure to check with your university or program provider to learn about dorm and on-campus housing options.