Study in Ireland

Did you know Ireland enjoyed a golden age of education and art after the collapse of the Roman Empire?

The country even gained the nickname, ‘The Land of Saints and Scholars’. The same culture continues even in the 21st century, making it a destination for anyone with a thirst for knowledge.

The Republic of Ireland, often referred to as the Emerald Isle, is located on the edge of Europe. It has a rich cultural history and charm with its green landscape. Ireland’s cities are also vibrant and offer a decent standard of living.

The allure of living, studying, and working in such an environment makes Ireland a significant hub for International students. The country’s education system is also one of the most progressive and advanced in the world.

The article will cover the following topics:

• Study in Ireland Statistics
• Why Study in Ireland
• Top Universities to Study in Ireland 2024
• Affordable Universities and Colleges in Ireland 2024
• Scholarships in Ireland
• Top In-Demand Careers in Ireland 2024
• Top Courses to Study in Ireland 2024
• Grading System in Ireland
• Eligibility Criteria to Study in Ireland
• Study in Ireland Application Process
• Important Timelines for Study in Ireland
• Cost of Living and Studying in Ireland
• Student Life In Ireland
• Best Cities to Study and Live in Ireland
• Top Jobs in Ireland for International Students
• Temporary Graduate Visa in Ireland
• Permanent Residency (PR) After Study in Ireland
• Conclusion
• FAQs

Study in Ireland Statistics

Since 2007/2008, Ireland has been an education hub for international students, although there was a slight stagnation in international student enrolment during the pandemic. Here is a figure from the Higher Education Authority (HEA) illustrating this increase.

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According to the statistics of the Higher Education Authority (HEA) yearly figures, International student population has been on the rise in recent years after the COVID pandemic. Here is a breakdown of the key facts and figures.

From the above table, we can derive the following key figures:

• While there was a slight decrease in total enrollments in 2022/2023, the international student population increased by 19% per year for the last two years! This means that the Emerald Isle is a preferred destination by most students globally.
• Popular courses among students in Ireland include Business, Administration, Law, Health and Welfare, and Arts and Humanities.

Other interesting statistics about studying in Ireland include:

• As of July 2022, 56% of international students choose to study at Dublin’s universities and colleges. 12% prefer to study in the southwest of Ireland, and 11% study in the west.
• A large number of international students are from non-European Union countries. This number has been on the rise since 2011/2012.
• More female students (54.5%) enrolled to study in Irish universities and colleges compared to male students in 2022/2023.
• The USA was the leading country of origin for international students at 14.5%. India was second at 13.5%, followed by China at 11.3% as of 2022/2023.  However, there is increasing interest in Ireland from African students, especially in Nigeria, South Africa, Kenya, Uganda and Zimbabwe.

Why Study in Ireland

Higher education institutions in Ireland offer a curriculum that promotes problem-solving, critical thinking, and innovation. They equip international students with the capability to solve real-world solutions.

Here are six more reasons why you should consider studying in Ireland.

a) First Class Education System

Ireland is one of the top 5 countries in the world for higher education, according to a new study from The Campus Advisor. In Europe, it ranks as the third.

The study encompassed several factors, among them the quality of education. Ireland scored 4.51 out of 5 in this category, marking it a top destination for students pursuing higher learning. 

b) Top Tier Universities and Colleges

Studying in Ireland ensures that you get internationally recognised degrees from top institutions of higher learning. The main advantage of this is that you can secure employment globally.

At Craydel, we have done the work for you and sourced for the best higher-learning institutions in Ireland. We partner with top universities and colleges in Dublin, Cork, Galway, Munster, Limerick and Athlone. They offer undergraduate and postgraduate courses in various fields.   

c) Work in Ireland as You Study

Most international students often wonder whether they can work while studying in Ireland. The simple answer is yes, you can.

As an international student, you can legally work up to 20 hours a week during a school semester. However, you can get the complete work experience in Ireland during holidays by working 40 hours.

The law also stipulates that you get a minimum wage of €10 per hour if you wish to earn some income on a part-time basis.

d) Work Opportunities After Study

Did you know you can get a post-study work visa after completing your studies in Ireland? How cool is that?

Provided you have completed a level 8 (Honours Bachelor’s) or a higher level degree, you can remain in Ireland for up to 24 months. If you wish to continue living in Ireland after the two years, you’ll need to apply for a work permit, which your employer can sponsor, allowing you to apply for permanent residency after a total of five years in Ireland.

Plenty of work opportunities exist for learners after school. Ireland has a thriving economy that absorbs most graduates. Students find employment in various sectors like pharmaceuticals, finance, exports, and trade.

Ireland is also known as the Silicon Valley of Europe since it’s a hub of operations for major companies in the ICT niche. As a result, technology professionals get plenty of job opportunities in Ireland.

Employability Ratings After Graduation

According to QS Graduate Employability rankings of 2022, six higher-learning institutions in Ireland are ranked in the top 500. Here is a table that shows universities producing the most employable graduates in Ireland.

 Some of the top universities in Ireland also have a high rate of students landing employment within 24 months after graduating. The percentage rate of employment is as follows:

• University of Galway – 98%
• University of Limerick – 96%
• Dublin City University – 96%
• University College Cork – 93%
• Technological University of Dublin – 93%

e) Great Quality of Life

Ireland is a first-world country, so the quality of life is excellent. The crime rate is low, and international students can enjoy security in Ireland’s cities while pursuing higher education.

Students should prepare for the high cost of living in major cities like Dublin. Accommodation may be tricky to find, but most universities offer accommodation on campus. However, you can benefit from budget-friendly options in Cork and Galway.   

f) Hospitable People and Culture

Ireland is one of the few English-speaking countries in Europe. This means that international students who speak, read, and write English well have an easy time settling in the country.

Ireland is also a developing multicultural society. There were 81,000 rest of world immigrants as of April 2023. There are also over 30,000 international students in the Republic of Ireland.

This means you’ll interact with people and students from diverse backgrounds. As an international student, it opens up your worldview, enriching your school and work life.

Ireland’s culture is also vibrant, with parades and everything green on St. Patrick’s Day. It’s Ireland’s biggest celebration of culture and happens every year on March 17th.

Top Universities and Colleges to Study in Ireland 2024

According to QS World University Ranking of 2024, eight institutions of higher learning in Ireland feature among the top 500 universities in the world. The rankings are based on several factors, including;

• The university’s academic reputation
• The university’s reputation among employers
• Employment outcomes
• International research impact
• Sustainability
• International student and faculty ratio
• Faculty-student ratio
• Citations per faculty

Here is the list of the top eight universities and colleges to study in Ireland in 2024.

Other top colleges to study in Ireland include:

• Griffith College (HECA Accreditation)
• National College of Ireland (QQI Accreditation)
• Holmes Institute Dublin (QQI Accreditation)
• Pathways like Dublin International Foundation College (DIFC) (ACELS, NCUK, Marketing English in Ireland Accreditation)
• Dublin International Study Centre (AACSB Accreditation)

Affordable Universities and Colleges in Ireland 2024

Ireland has some of the best universities in the world, which may translate to a high cost of education. However, international students need not worry; they can get quality education at affordable universities and colleges in Ireland.

The cost varies according to the course, duration, and institution. Here is a list of ten budget-friendly higher learning institutions in Ireland for undergraduate programs from the most affordable to the least.

Scholarships in Ireland

Irish universities and colleges offer attractive scholarships to international students. Some of these scholarships are listed below:

• Government of Ireland International Education Scholarship (GOI-IES) grants a €10,000 stipend and full fee waiver for one year of study for master’s or PhD.
• Scholarships and discounts for international students from top universities and colleges such as:
  • Cork University Business School: Up to €5,000 per year for undergraduate
  • Dublin City University: Up to €6,400 for certain postgraduate programs
  • Griffith College – €1,000 for undergraduate degrees, exclusively if you apply with Craydel
  • Munster Technological University – up to €4,000 for students who are ready to actively engage in the international student community on campus
  • National College of Ireland: Up to €5,000 for Masters
  • OnCampus Ireland, Maynooth – €3,000 
  • Technological University of the Shannon, Athlone – €2,000 for undergraduate and postgraduate programs
  • University College Cork: Up to 25% for specific programs
  • University College Dublin: Up to 35%
  • University of Galway: €2,000 for undergraduate

For more information on scholarships and discounts, please see Craydel’s scholarship page. 

Top In-Demand Careers in Ireland 2024

Data analytics, e-commerce, digital marketing, financial services, and sustainable development are Ireland’s top five up-and-coming careers in 2024. Here is what you should know about these careers.

1. Data Analytics

Businesses in Ireland have the capacity to be data-driven in this new digital age. Therefore, the amount of data for analysis will continue to grow for companies. This creates a need for data analysis skills in the market, which you can learn in Irish universities and colleges.

The primary skills you’ll acquire from studying this field include problem-solving and communication. So, if you are detail-oriented and find data exploration easy, consider a move into a data analytics career.  

2. E-Commerce

E-commerce is on the rise in Ireland as people continue to embrace the power of the internet. More businesses are running websites to keep up with the competition or stand out among customers.

Ireland is also home to large e-commerce platforms like Amazon and Shopify. This means there is more need for e-commerce professionals in Ireland in 2024. 

3. Financial Services

Finance and technology are huge parts of Ireland’s economy. Careers in the fintech industry have been in demand, especially since the pandemic.

Companies like Mastercard, Fidelity Investments, Bank of Ireland, MetLife, and Hedgeserv constantly need these professionals, making it an in-demand career in 2024.

4. Digital Marketing

Digital marketing involves brand promotion to potential customers through various digital communication platforms. It involves many branches, including email marketing, social media, and Search Engine Optimization (SEO). 

Digital marketing is a growing industry in Ireland. Digital Advertising alone is expected to grow by 5.39% from 2024 to 2028 in Ireland, according to Statistica Market Forecast. This is expected to generate $1531.0 million by 2028. With such financial potential, digital marketing is an in-demand course in Irish universities and colleges.

5. Sustainable Development Supply Chains

Ireland’s government plans to create a resource-efficient economy through the Circular Economy Programme that it launched in 2021.

This initiative will open up jobs in sectors like renewable energies, clean tech, efficient energy building, and sustainable supply chain management.

International students can take advantage of this by studying to become supply chain managers who will drive the sustainable development agenda. Global giants in the pharmaceutical industry like Pfizer, GSK, and Genzyme also have their European HQs in Ireland!

Top Courses to Study in Ireland 2024

Ireland’s economy and education system have set up the following five courses as the best to study in Ireland in 2024.   

1. Computer Science

Ireland has a strong base in the world’s technology and innovation industry.

The country hosts multinational tech companies and flourishing startups. Companies like Google, HP, Apple, IBM, Facebook, Linkedin, and X (formerly Twitter) all have their European HQs in Ireland. Because of this, tech enthusiasts call it the Silicon Valley of Europe.  

International students can benefit from the thriving technology ecosystem by taking computer science and other ICT courses. They gain skills in programming, artificial intelligence software development, and cybersecurity.

Students wishing to study computer science can enrol in Griffith College to gain a strong base in the information technology profession. 

2. Data Science

If you love a maths-technology combination, consider a data science career path. The course offers you practical knowledge on data analytics. You get to use mathematics, statistics, and Artificial Intelligence to provide valuable business insights.

The course is an attractive option for students wishing to use their acquired data science skills in Ireland’s thriving business world. Apply with Craydel to study a bachelor in Data Science at the National College of Ireland.

3. Engineering

Ireland universities have various engineering programs that provide students with theoretical knowledge of machine structure design. Ireland’s emphasis on applied manufacturing and technologies also ensures that students get hands-on experience in their engineering courses.

Prospective third-level students can benefit from studying engineering at a reputable institution like the University College Dublin. The school offers electronic, mechanical, structural, chemical, and civil engineering courses.

4. Business and Management

The Emerald Isle has a thriving economy mainly driven by a favourable business environment. International students can use the business course to position themselves in the global commerce and trade landscape.

The bachelor’s course in Accounting and Finance at the Technological University Dublin is a popular choice for international students. It’s a four-year course that prepares students for a thriving career in finance.

5. Pharmacy

Ireland is world-renowned for its pharmaceutical industry, as top pharma companies like Pfizer, GSK, and Genzyme all have their European HQs in Ireland. International students have the advantage of access to state-of-the-art medical laboratories and facilities in third-level institutions.

Ireland’s universities and colleges have acclaimed healthcare tutors. As a result, the pharmacy course is based on evidence-based medicine and patient care.

Munster Technological University offers a pharmaceutical chemistry course that prepares students for a laboratory-based career.

Grading System in Ireland

The grading system in Ireland may differ according to the institution and program offered. However, the most common grading system in Ireland is as follows.

Eligibility Criteria to Study in Ireland

Admission requirements to study in Ireland vary according to the institution and course that you wish to do. However, knowing the following general requirements is essential before beginning your application process.

• You need to have transcripts for your university course if applying for a masters programme. This proves your ability to follow through in your chosen course.
• You need to make an application letter outlining your reason for wanting to come to Ireland. It also includes your commitment to fulfill the conditions of the Irish student visa.
• An English proficiency test is required.
• You also need evidence accounting for any gaps since your last period in school. It can include proof of employment.
• You also have to show that you have funds to support your stay in Ireland without needing assistance from public funds or casual employment.
• Evidence of fee payment to your chosen institution through an Electronic Transfer of Funds (ETF) is also required. 
• You can cover your medical insurance, which is also needed in some instances.

If you want to check your eligibility across 50,000+ university and college courses in 30+ countries around the world in seconds, complete your Craydel Eligibility Check today!

Study in Ireland Application Process

Getting admission to an Irish university or college doesn’t have to be a hassle. Work with a Craydel counsellor through each of these steps to have a higher success rate with entry into one of Ireland’s higher learning institutions.

1. Showing Interest and Choosing the Course of Study

This is the initial stage, where a counsellor walks you through the different course options. They will advise you on a suitable course based on your high school grades and interests.

If you’re still not sure on the right career path, don’t worry. Craydel offers an industry-leading Career Match Assessment. It aligns you with the appropriate career path based on your personality, interests, and internationally recognised career development models.

Afterwards, the counsellor will recommend suitable universities and colleges to help you identify which suits you.

2. Submitting Application Documents

The counsellor will help you gather all the application documents necessary to make the application. They include:

• A duly completed application form
• Academic certificates and transcripts from recognised institutions
• A well-written personal statement for students wishing to enroll in post-graduate studies
• A passport
• Passport photos
• An English proficiency test using the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Duolingo is also another affordable and convenient option you can take from the comfort of your home.

3. Getting an Offer Letter

It can be unconditional, meaning you don’t have to fulfil any obligations for the next step of the process. If it’s conditional, there is usually a requirement to pay a minimum deposit of €6,000.

4. Getting Letter of Acceptance (LOA) of Study

This is the letter that you will use to get the Irish student visa.

5. Applying for an Ireland Study Visa

As per Ireland immigration, you are required to fulfil the following items in the visa checklist:

• Application letter
• Evidence of payment of the required fees
• Academic documents
• An English test
• Proof of medical insurance
• Evidence that you have access to at least €10,000 as your bank balance for maintenance in the first year of your stay.
• You also have to show the capability of having access to at least €10,000 for every study year in addition to the fees for your course.

6. Travelling and Enrollment

Travelling a month before enrollment gives you ample time to acclimate and settle in Ireland before beginning your studies. 

Important Timelines for Study in Ireland

It’s important to take note of crucial timelines for intake as well as course duration for the course that you choose. Here is more information regarding important dates.

Popular Intakes for Study in Ireland

International students have two intakes to choose from when considering to study in Ireland. One is during autumn from September to October, and the other is during Spring in January and February.

The main intake for most universities and colleges is in September and October. However, there are still options to enrol in January and February. Holmes Institute Dublin recruits for certain courses in June.

When Should You Apply?

International students should start applying for their study visas three months before they travel to Ireland. This accords them ample time for the processing of their visas. However, remember that you need to provide bank statements for the last six months in your visa application, so you need to plan for your study visas up to 12 months in advance.

If you need guidance and support on your visa application, please reach out to Craydel today.

Course Duration for Study in Ireland

The course duration depends on the institution and the course you wish to study. Here is a breakdown.

• Foundation courses typically take one year. They are introductory programs intended to prepare a student who does not qualify for an undergraduate course for entry into an undergraduate course.
• Undergraduate courses take three or four years for the honour programmes.
• Postgraduate courses take between one and two years.

Cost of Living and Studying in Ireland

Ireland may be a first-world country, but living and studying costs are affordable. Tuition fees for most courses range between €12,000 and €24,000. With scholarships available for international students, fees can even be below €10,000.

Living expenses depend on the city that you reside in. Dublin, the capital, has the highest rates for accommodation and food. General expenditure for all cities ranges between €10,000 to €15,000 per year.

Student Life In Ireland

Ireland is generally friendly to all learners, especially international students. However, each campus and city provides a unique experience to students.

Institutions in the middle of large cities like Dublin provide a more urban experience complete with diverse cuisine restaurants and fun festivals.

Universities outside the city offer a more engaging experience with Ireland’s beautiful countryside. Students may even find themselves walking or cycling to campus.

Some universities and colleges will offer everything a student needs within their grounds. This can include canteens and restaurants. It eliminates the need to venture out of campus. This can be advantageous for international students as they can slowly acclimate to the school before exploring the rest of the country.

Best Cities to Study and Live in Ireland

Ireland offers the best of urban life and also breathtaking natural landscapes. International students can explore a unique combination of these two factors in various cities across the Emerald Isle.

We have done the research for you to come up with a conclusive list of the five best cities to live and study in Ireland. They include:

Dublin

Dublin is Ireland’s capital and largest city. As a result, international students flock to higher learning institutions in the capital. Here is what you should consider when deciding to settle in Dublin.

a) You’ll experience a vibrant city life

Dublin’s city life is full of energy and life. There are plenty of places to explore by public transport, bike, or on foot during your free time. Not far from the city centre is a beach that suits every mood and is often visited by surfers from all over the world.

b) Enjoy a decent student life

Most students studying in Dublin enjoy learning in prestigious universities and colleges. The city was even rated 32 in the latest QS Best Student Cities ranking of 2024.

c) You’ll get more employment opportunities

Living and studying in the capital has its economic advantages. The city hosts major international companies as well as thriving startups. This means that there are many industries to support students who want to work part-time and full-time.

d) You’ll be safe

Dublin has its fair share of petty crimes, like most metropolitan cities. However, the city is relatively safer, with fewer cases of street violence. International students enjoy a secure environment in and around campus during their study in Ireland.

e) Study in ideal weather conditions

Ireland’s capital has temperate oceanic weather. The city experiences mild temperatures but plenty of rainfall throughout the year.

Cork

Cork is Ireland’s second-largest city. International students planning to enrol in Cork’s universities and colleges should consider the following factors.

a) Enjoy exquisite delicacies

Cork is often referred to as Ireland’s culinary capital. If you enjoy delicacies, you will love living here. The city has excellent restaurants, pubs, and one of Europe’s top food shopping centres, The English Market.

b) Cork is friendly

The city of Cork was ranked 22nd, according to a recent study of best cities for student friendliness. With a 4.24 out of 5 rating, Cork’s vibrant food and festivals suit most international students.

c) Interact with a young adult population

It’s easy to make friends in Ireland’s second-largest city since it has a lively young population. There are about 35,000 students in the city, in addition to the locals.

d) You’ll enjoy festivities on a regular basis

Cork is often home to live gigs from local and international artists. Other festivals to enjoy year-round include Jazz, Film, Comedy, Folk, Oktoberfest, Short Story, Midsummer, and Harbour festivals.

e) It’s an entrepreneurship hub

Whether you’re seeking employment or want to start your own business, Cork provides the economic environment for successful entrepreneurship. With vibrant global companies setting up in the city, students have ample motivation and mentorship to set up their own businesses.

Galway

The city of Galway delivers a distinct bohemian charm to international students and its visitors. It has a population of 277,737 as per the 2022 census. Here is what international students should know about the city.

a) You’ll experience Ireland’s culture in a wholesome way

Galway has a nickname for being the culture capital of Ireland. It was even announced as the 2020 European capital of culture.

b) It’s ideal for study-work balance

Performing the balancing act of studying while working can take a toll on most students. Studying and living in Galway eliminates these complexities by offering ideal conditions for hybrid working.

In Galway, students have a high-speed internet connection. Broadband and 5G is fast, thanks to the National Broadband Plan. You’ll also have easier access to transport links for commuting.

c) It’s the best micro-city in Europe

Galway has a city-like environment that has the potential to bloom into a major investment hub in Europe. In the recent past, The Financial Times has even crowned it as Europe’s micro city of the year and a region of the future.

Students can live and study in Galway knowing that it has the potential to support their career aspirations after graduation.

d) It’s home to excellent universities

It’s home to some of the country’s best universities. This includes the third-best university in Ireland, the University of Galway, according to QS world university rankings of 2023. Students living and studying in Galway will also benefit from learning at Galway Business School, J.E. Cairness School of Business & Economics, and Atlantic Technological University.

e) It’s Ireland’s most charming city

A publication in the New York Times names Galway as Ireland’s most charming city. Students living and studying in Ireland enjoy the appeal of a slow-paced yet modern life. Galway has cool new pubs and restaurants, which are also sentimental to the locals since they hold centuries-old culture and history.

Limerick

It’s Ireland’s third most populated urban centre, located in the south-west part of the country. The city is built on the banks of River Shannon, the largest river in Ireland. Here are reasons why it’s a popular destination for international students.

a) The city is well-connected

Moving around in the city presents no challenges. Limerick has an efficient public bus and rail service that eases the movement of people and goods. You’ll never get late to class or any other appointment while living in the city.

Students living in the city also have the advantage of living close to Shannon International Airport, which is less than 30 kilometres away.

b) It has great institutions rated internationally

Limerick is home to the University of Limerick, Limerick College of Further Education, Limerick Institute of Technology and Griffith College Limerick. International students are spoilt for choice with a lineup of top-tier institutions in the city.

c) It has a rich history

Limerick is often called the Treaty City after the Treaty of Limerick in 1691, which ended the Williamite-Jacobite war. 

Historical sites include King John’s Castle, St. Mary’s Cathedral, Bunratty Castle, the Medieval Village of Askeaton, The Hunt Museum and Folk Park. If you find yourself in Limerick as a student, take the time to visit these places to appreciate the city’s rich history.

d) Limerick has affordable accommodation for students

According to the University of Limerick, the city has lower accommodation rates than Dublin, Cork and Galway. This makes it one of Ireland’s most affordable cities for student accommodation.

e) Plenty of activities to do in the city

If you love the outdoors, here is a fun fact for you. There are no native snakes in Ireland. Yes, you can explore the outdoors without worrying about the slithering creatures. Do this by kayaking in the Shannon River or hiking at the Glens Waterfall.

Maynooth

Maynooth is often referred to as a university town as it is home to Maynooth University. This means that a major population of the town is students and staff from the university. Here are more reasons why it’s a top student town.

a) It’s not far from the capital of Ireland

Maynooth is close to the capital. It only takes 30 minutes by train to journey from Maynooth to Dublin. This means you can enjoy the capital’s administrative and social economic services while studying in Maynooth. 

b) It’s charming and quiet

With a population of only 17,259 (2022 census), it’s the perfect place to live and study if you like slow-paced towns. However, the town becomes more animated during a school session.

c) Has plenty of restaurants

If you love delicacies, you’ll get along just fine in Maynooth. Popular restaurants include Bistro 53 Maynooth, Avenue Cafe, Picaderos and Stone Haven.

d) Accommodates the adventurers

Are you wondering how you can reward yourself after long sessions of study? The answer lies in the outdoors. Luckily, Maynooth has plenty of activities to do in the open.

Enjoy the Maynooth to Leixlip canal walk which takes about two hours to complete. You can also explore the trails of the expansive Donadea Forest.

e) People in Maynooth are warm and welcoming

You are bound to make friends with the local people from the start. Whether it’s on campus, at restaurants, shops or in pubs, there is always a friendly face ready to chat with you.

Top Jobs in Ireland for International Students

International students who are not from the European Economic Union (EEA) can take up casual jobs if they have a stamp 2 permission to remain. Students with stamp 2A can’t work in Ireland.

Those with stamp 2 can work for a maximum of 20 hours in a week during a school term. This period extends to 40 hours a week during the holidays. The break runs from June to September. and from 15th December to 15th January.

On-Campus Jobs in Ireland

On-campus jobs provide a convenient way to balance between studies and work. Here are the on-campus jobs to work while studying in Ireland.

• Research Assistant
• Library assistant
• Part-time receptionist
• Campus tour guide
• Student recruitment officer
• Faculty member assistant
• School Janitor

Off-Campus Jobs in Ireland

If you want to switch up the environment and separate your school and work life, then this is the option for you. Here are jobs to consider:

• Sales assistant
• Restaurant steward
• Store Cashier
• Call center agent
• Community support worker
• Babysitting/ nanny services
• Driver helper

Working off-campus gives you more job options, but you may incur extra transport charges, especially if your job is far from your school.

Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) in Ireland

Under Irish immigration, international students can remain in Ireland for up to 24 months after getting a bachelor’s or master’s degree from a recognised Irish university or College. This is known as the third-level graduate programme.

Its purpose is to help international students get an employment permit and secure employment in Ireland.

Conditions to qualify for the PGWP include:

• You must have a stamp 2 student visa
• You must not have accessed the programme more than two times
• You must have good standing with the Irish authorities
• You must not have exceeded the seven-year limit for your student visa in Ireland
• You must have evidence of the final award or an official letter from the issuing body acknowledging that you have achieved it.
• Required documents include your passport, medical insurance, and a €300 fee for registration.

Permanent Residency (PR) After Study in Ireland

Getting permanent residency in Ireland after completion of your studies takes time. To be eligible, here are the requirements you are required to meet.

• You must be a legal resident in Ireland for 60 months or five years with an employment permit from the Department of Enterprise, Trade, and Employment. This means getting a stamp 1 or 4 on your passport.
• You must be a legal resident of Ireland and be employed when applying.
• You must have been of good character during your stay in Ireland and are not wanted by An Garda Síochána (police).
• You must provide documentation that proves that you have been a continuous resident of Ireland. It can include copies of tenancy, employment permits, an employment contract, your current Irish Residence Permit (IRP), and an application form.

So, what happens after the successful application of your PR?

• Immigration Service Delivery sends you a letter that requires you to pay €500 within 28 days after receipt of the letter.
• You can work in Ireland for an extra five years without requiring a work permit. 
• Your spouse or dependant may also apply for long-term residency

If your application is refused, Irish immigration sends you a letter outlining the reasons for refusal. There is no repeal process, but you can re-apply for PR anytime.

Conclusion

Ready to kick start your career journey by studying in Ireland?

Leave all the hassle of sourcing for a university in Ireland to us. We will walk with you as you choose your preferred course and university and guide you through enrollment as you settle in the Emerald Isle.

FAQs

Who Can Sponsor Me to Study in Ireland?

You can either self-sponsor or receive sponsorship from your family members. Sponsorship from family friends generally isn’t allowed except in special cases.

Generally, the financial requirements of Irish immigration require that you are able to meet the full cost of living and studying in Ireland without taking a loan.

Is Ireland Student Visa Difficult to Get?

Getting an Ireland student visa isn’t hard. The success rate is generally high compared to other countries. If you apply for a student visa and it gets rejected, it’s possible to appeal within two months of getting the rejection letter. Contact Craydel for help with your study visa.

Can I Visit the UK With an Ireland Student Visa?

No, you can’t enter the United Kingdom with an Ireland student visa. You’ll need a separate UK visa to visit the country.

Is Ireland a Good Country to Study and Work?

Yes, Ireland is an excellent country to study and work in Ireland. The education system is one of the best in Europe. Ireland’s economy ensures a high quality of life, the people are friendly, and the environment is conducive for optimal learning.