Ireland, aka the Land of Saints and Scholars, offers a bevy of universities with state-of-the-art facilities and global experiences. In addition to the wide spectrum of programs available, colleges in Ireland for international students promise quality professors who will elevate your education to new heights.
Whether you’re looking to study on a campus nestled in the countryside or centralized in a city, this list of universities in Ireland for international students has settings to suit every lifestyle. Many colleges in Ireland also round out your academics with a diversity of student groups, so you’ll also come to find a sense of community and feel at home away from home.
Plus, you’ll find that the people of the Emerald Isle are friendly and hospitable. So you’ll be partaking in hearty stews and frothy Guinnesses in good company! Better yet, as an international student living in Ireland, you’ll be just a short flight to several neighboring countries like the United Kingdom, France, Switzerland, and Germany.
Why get your degree in Ireland?
Ireland boasts top-notch universities that rank among the best in the world. Whether you’re looking to study business, humanities, technology, law, engineering, or just about any other field that your heart desires, universities in Ireland offer a plethora of degree choices for international students. Not to mention that Ireland is one of the safest and happiest countries in the world.
Many of the colleges in Ireland have high employment rates for graduates thanks to their supportive career services. And since this lush green country is a hub for many multinational corporations with post-study work visas available for international students, you’ll find many opportunities to jumpstart your career with some of the best minds in the world.
Is college free in Ireland?
You may be wondering: Is college free in Ireland? Well, not exactly. The Higher Education Authority (HEA) covers the costs for bachelor’s degrees (with some exceptions) in Ireland for students from Ireland, EU/EEA countries, and Switzerland.
For citizens from outside of those countries, the average yearly cost of tuition, depending on the courses and location, runs around 9,850 to 55,000 euros a year ($10,686 to $59,672). Take heart: Many universities in Ireland, the Irish governments, and private organizations award scholarships and other sources of funding to international students.
Transportation costs are also fairly affordable in Ireland, and you can save money by living with roommates or an Irish family and enrolling in the university directly. Also, be sure to check out GoAbroad’s Scholarship Directory for additional opportunities. May the luck of the Irish be on your side!
10 colleges in Ireland accepting international students
Trinity College’s iconic library can top a list of reasons to study in Ireland all by itself.
Can’t decide where you’d like to study in Ireland? This list of universities in Ireland for international students spotlights each college’s best features:
1. Trinity College Dublin
Discover where hallowed halls meets innovative education at the #1 best global university in Ireland: Trinity College Dublin. With five research institutes, Trinity leads the way in cutting-edge technology and scientific breakthroughs. You’ll find over 100 programs available from Acting to Zoology along with 170 clubs and societies to liven up your free time.
This 47-acre campus lies in the heart of Dublin, so restaurants, bars, shops, museums, theaters, parks, and more will also be right at your fingertips. Keep in mind that as one of the most prestigious universities in Europe, admissions are highly competitive and based primarily on academic merit.
- Highlights: #1 university in Ireland, research-driven, central city location
- International student population: 4,800 (24%)
- Study abroad program: IFSA - Trinity College Dublin Partnership
2. University College Dublin
University College Dublin, also known as Ireland’s Global University, is another one of the best colleges in Ireland for international students. Enjoy a spacious campus with facilities, lakes, and woodland walks while also being close to the city center, beaches, and mountain trails for adventures. Plus, you’ll find the widest range of degree offerings here compared to any other university in Ireland.
UCD also ranks in the top 1% of institutions worldwide with a diverse student body from over 140 countries. From sports to art and politics to economics, you can also join a wide range of activities and societies—a great way to make new friends.
- Highlights: Wide range of degree programs, top 1% of institutions
- International student population: 9,593 (25%)
- Study abroad program: IES Abroad Dublin DE – University College Dublin
3. University of Galway
Can’t you picture yourself strolling these streets?
Known as “Ireland’s Cultural Heart” on the west coast, the charming city of Galway embodies small town and bohemian vibes with artsy festivals and a buzzing city center. If you’re looking for one of the most walkable universities in Ireland for international students, you’ll love the University of Galway. Once voted as the world’s most friendly destination, many international students say they feel right at home here.
You’d also be just a hop, skip, and jump away from the iconic Cliffs of Moher! Not just a place for art studies, the city is also a global hub for eight of the world’s top ten medical technology companies with the campus leading the way in research. Scholarships are available for international students, and the university boasts that 96% of undergraduates find employment afterward.
- Highlights: 96% employment rate, most friendly destination, med-tech research
- International student population: 4,000 (21%)
- Study abroad program: ISA Study Abroad in Galway, Ireland
4. University College Cork
University College Cork offers a bright academic career for students with over a hundred bachelor’s programs to choose from. International students will find themselves in a strong multicultural environment with plenty of supportive services and university clubs and activities.
Thanks to its dedication to sustainability across a multitude of disciplines, UCC was also the first campus in the world to receive a “Green Flag” from the Foundation for Environmental Education. From strolling through the Blarney Castle and Gardens to drooling over culinary delights in the English Market, Cork will sweep you off your feet with its charming, laid-back atmosphere.
- Highlights: Green campus, variety of degree programs, multicultural environment
- International student population: 3,000 (15%)
- Study abroad program: USAC IRELAND: Cork - Full Curriculum
5. Dublin City University
The vibrant life of Dublin awaits when you set your sights on Ireland.
As you’re researching colleges in Ireland for international students, Dublin City University is another top contender. DCU ranks #1 in graduate employability, and graduates have the highest median salary of students from any Irish University. DCU’s INTRA (Integrated Training) work placement program for 80% of courses contributes to this achievement.
As one of the youngest Ireland universities, it’s also one the most modern with top-notch facilities and libraries. You’ll find a wide variety of degree programs, plenty of supportive services, and hundreds of student societies. DCU even offers international merit scholarships. Best of all, you’re just a short bus ride to the heart of the city or the airport—more European adventures await!
- Highlights: #1 in Ireland for graduate employability, work placement program
- International student population: 2,318 (17%)
- Study abroad program: Dublin City University Study Abroad and Degree Abroad Programmes
6. Queen’s University Belfast
Discover nearby awe-inspiring “Game of Thrones” scenery, marvel at the Titanic museum, and tour historic pubs in Belfast, the capital city of Northern Ireland. Queen’s University ranks as one of the top 10 most beautiful historic universities in the United Kingdom—and it’s just a 10-minute walk to Belfast’s center, so you’ll be close to nearby shopping areas, festivals, and more.
Plus, it’s also a research-intensive university and a member of the elite Russell Group (UK’s Ivy League). This university also offers scholarships for international students from just about anywhere in the world, so you could get up to 50% off tuition fees!
- Highlights: Elite research-driven university, offers scholarships, close to city
- International student population: 4,200 (17%)
- Study abroad program: IFSA: Queen’s University, Belfast Partnership
7. Maynooth University
Maynooth, a university town, lies about 15 miles outside of Dublin (yes, there’s a train available) and features a stunning castle and Carlton House. Interlinking an older campus (“the South”—St. Patrick’s College) with a modern campus (“the North”), you’ll literally get the best of both worlds at Maynooth University.
MU is a fast-growing and research-driven campus with hundreds of courses available. Plus, it ranked #1 in 2022 in the Times Higher Education as the Best Young University in Ireland. Thanks to its strong community, charming campus, and support services, MU has also received the Outstanding International Student Satisfaction Award.
- Highlights: #1 Best Young University, quiet Irish countryside feel
- International student population: 1,335 (11%)
- Study abroad program: Non-Profit, Low-Cost, Direct Study in Ireland
8. University of Limerick
Earn your degree at a top university in Ireland, then go for study breaks taking in the gorgeous landscapes.
In the heart of Ireland lies Limerick, a walkable city sprawling with museums and King John’s Castle, its crown jewel. Hugging both sides of the River Shannon, the University of Limerick has attracted international students the world over thanks to its strong reputation for research.
With highly qualified and experienced faculty, you can be rest assured that your academic career will be in good hands. Better yet, with its quality accommodation, a welcoming environment, picturesque campus, award-winning career services, and supportive learning centers, it’s no wonder that the University of Limerick has ranked #2 in the world for happiness among international students.
- Highlights: Supportive services, outstanding research, ranked #2 for happiness
- International student population: 1,955 (13%)
- Study abroad program: Semester in Limerick - University of Limerick
9. Griffith College
Griffith College is a top independent university in Ireland, with two campuses in Dublin, one in Limerick, and one in Cork—all close to their respective city centers. They welcome international students from over 90 countries.
The university offers a faculty in business, creative arts and screen media, journalism and media communications, law, design, computer science, and science. The Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI), an internationally recognized Irish government degree-awarding body, has validated all of their academic programs. Griffith College prides themselves on their student-centered approach with plenty of celebrations.
- Highlights: Student-centered, city-centered campuses
- International student population: 1,400 (20%)
- Study abroad program: Study in Dublin, Ireland at Griffith College with ASA
10. Ulster University
Ulster University consists of four campuses—two in Belfast, one in Derry~Londonderry, and one in Coleraine, with branch campuses in London and Birmingham. With over 200 courses available, you’re bound to find a degree that suits you. Plus, Ulster University offers thousands of work placements a year and boasts a 94% employment rate for graduates.
You can also get involved in and join one (or more) of its 70 sports clubs or 90 societies, and you’re in good hands with their student wellness services. UU is also one of the most affordable universities in both the UK and Ireland, with over a dozen scholarships available for international students.
- Highlights: Affordability, student wellness services, multi-campus
- International student population: 2,000 (7%)
- Study abroad program: IFSA: Ulster University Partnership
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An education in Ireland is calling your name!
Now you know the best universities in Ireland for international students! By attending any of these Irish universities, you’re bound to gain new perspectives that will broaden your horizons. Plus, your educational endeavors abroad will go beyond the four walls of a classroom.
Soak in the storied settings of historic landmarks, feast your eyes on jaw-dropping landscapes, and revel in the rhythms of river dancing. So what are you waiting for? An unforgettable chapter of your life awaits!
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