Tuition cost in Ireland for international students

Wish to study in Ireland? Ireland has become an increasingly popular destination for international students due to its high-quality education system, excellent standard of living, and vibrant culture. However, like many other countries, the cost of tuition can be a significant barrier for many students.

In this article, we will provide a detailed breakdown of tuition costs in Ireland for international students and scholarships that may be available to help offset these costs. Read this article to learn how safe Ireland is for international students.

Planning your degree in Ireland? We can help you take the next step!

What is the tuition cost?

Tuition cost refers to the fee that students pay to attend an educational institution or program. This fee covers the cost of instruction, facilities, equipment, and other services provided by the institution. Tuition costs can vary depending on the institution, program, and level of study.

Tuition cost is typically determined by the institution offering the educational program. The cost of providing instruction, facilities, and equipment can influence tuition costs, as well as the reputation of the institution and the level of demand for the program. Additionally, tuition costs may vary for domestic and international students.

In general, the tuition cost for undergraduate programs is lower than that of graduate programs. However, the cost of tuition for certain undergraduate programs, such as medical or engineering ones, can be higher due to the specialised nature of the program and the associated costs of providing the necessary resources for it.

Related topics: Study in Ireland | Cost of living in Ireland | Reasons to study in Ireland | Upcoming intakes in Ireland | Education system in Ireland | 

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Tuition cost in Ireland for international students

International students who want to study in Ireland should be aware of the tuition fees and other costs involved in pursuing higher education in the country. The tuition fees for international students vary depending on the university, the program of study, and the level of study (undergraduate or postgraduate). In general, tuition fees for international students are higher than those for EU students.

Tuition fees can vary depending on the level of study and the specific program or field of study. Here is an overview of Ireland universities’ fees for international students for undergraduate and postgraduate programs.

Source: Study.eu | Explore UE | Erasmus University Rotterdam

Here is a breakdown of tuition costs for international students in Ireland:

Undergraduate courses

Tuition fees for undergraduate studies in Ireland depend on the university or college, the course of study, and the student's residency status. Public universities generally charge lower tuition fees than private universities.

The average tuition fees for international students studying undergraduate courses in public universities range from €18,000 to €30,000 per year.

Source: Trinity College Dublin | Master’s Portal

→ Explore undergraduate courses in Ireland

Postgraduate courses

Postgraduate courses in Ireland generally cost more than undergraduate courses, and tuition fees for international students can vary depending on the course and the institution.

Source: Trinity College Dublin | PhD Portal | University College Dublin

→ Explore postgraduate courses in Ireland

Medical courses

Tuition fees for medical studies in Ireland are generally higher than other courses of study, ranging from €40,000 to €60,000 per year, depending on the university or college.

Some examples of medical courses and their tuition fees are:

• Graduate Entry Medicine program at University College Dublin: €59,500 per year
• Dental Science program at Trinity College Dublin: €50,650 per year
• Medicine program at University College Cork: €47,000 per year

Also read: Cost of living in Ireland for international students

Tuition fee comparison: Ireland vs USA, UK, Canada, and Australia

The tuition fee differs widely between countries, and an overview of the tuition fees of the popular study destinations will help you make an informed choice. Ireland is a preferred choice due to its high-quality education and significantly lower tuition fees compared to other popular study destinations.

Here’s an overview of the tuition fees in Ireland, the USA, the UK, Canada, and Australia.

Source: University of Evansville | UK Council for International Student Affairs | Universities Canada

Student living costs in Ireland

The average cost of living in Ireland for international students ranges between EUR 7,000 and EUR 14,000 per annum. This includes accommodation, food, transportation, and other expenses for comfortable living.

Living costs for students in Ireland can vary depending on factors such as location, accommodation type, personal lifestyle, and spending habits. It's important to consider these expenses when budgeting your study in Ireland, as they contribute significantly to the overall cost. Here's an overview of student living costs in Ireland:

1. Accommodation

Accommodation costs for students in Ireland can vary depending on the location, type of accommodation, and whether it is on-campus or off-campus. There’s usually high demand for on-campus accommodation. You can choose from accommodations on campus, the university halls of residence, or Purpose Built Student Accommodation that are located close to the campus. In case you find it difficult to secure on-campus accommodation, you can stay in private off-campus student apartments located close to your university. 

• On-campus accommodation: The cost of on-campus accommodation in Ireland can range from €4,000 to €8,000 per academic year, depending on the university and the type of room. Most on-campus accommodations are organised as apartments where 4 to 8 students can stay. You must pay the rent at the beginning of each semester. Usually, you are also required to pay a refundable advance security deposit. 
• Off-campus accommodation: Renting a room in a shared apartment or flat can cost around €350 to €800 per month, while renting a private apartment or house can range from €800 to €1,500 per month. Living in a homestay with a host family can cost around €500 to €900 per month, including meals. You have to pay the rent every month in advance. Private residences also collect a refundable deposit of one month's rent.
• Living-learning communities: Living-learning communities are specialised residential programmes offered by some universities, where students sharing similar academic interests reside together. The average rent per month in such communities can range from €6,000 to €10,000 per year.
• Summer accommodation: For summer courses, you can access temporary accommodations. These accommodations charge an average rent of €150 to €300 per week. 

Note: Contact the university’s accommodation office to enquire about on-campus accommodations. If you prefer to stay in private residences, you can explore social media groups and various online platforms like CollegeCribs.ie, Myhome.ie, and Daft.ie. 

2. Utilities

Electricity, heating, water, and waste disposal typically amount to around €50 to €100 per month, depending on usage and the number of roommates.

3. Food

Grocery expenses can vary depending on personal preferences and eating habits. On average, monthly food expenses can range from €150 to €300, but this can vary significantly based on individual choices.

4. Transportation

Public transportation costs, such as bus or train fares, can range from €70 to €120 per month, depending on the distance and frequency of travel. Some cities offer discounted student rates for public transportation.

5. Health insurance

All international students in Ireland are required to have health insurance. The cost of health insurance for students can range from €300 to €600 per year, depending on the coverage and provider.

6. Personal expenses

Personal expenses, including mobile phone bills, internet services, entertainment, and leisure activities, can amount to approximately €100 to €200 per month, depending on personal choices and preferences.

Also read: How much does it cost to study in Canada?

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City-wise breakdown of student living costs in Ireland

Your living costs vary based on the city you choose to live in. Here’s a city-wise breakdown of the living costs in Ireland.

Source: Switcher.ie 

Affordable universities in Ireland

Ireland is home to several universities that offer quality education at relatively affordable tuition fees for international students. Here are some universities in Ireland with affordable study costs:

• Dublin City University
• National University of Ireland, Galway
• University of Limerick
• Maynooth University
• Waterford Institute of Technology
• Cork Institute of Technology
• Institute of Technology, Carlow
• Athlone Institute of Technology
• Institute of Technology, Tralee
• Dundalk Institute of Technology

Studying in Ireland as an international student can be an enriching experience, but it also requires careful planning and budgeting. Tuition fees for undergraduate and postgraduate courses can vary greatly, ranging from €10,000 to €40,000 per year, depending on the course and institution. In addition to tuition fees, students should also consider their living expenses, health insurance, and other personal expenses.

Studying abroad isn’t just a dream—it’s your future. Let’s make it happen!

Best academic programmes in Irish universities

Ireland strikes a balance between academic quality and affordability. Here are some of the academic programmes in Irish universities that offer both quality and value for money.

Scholarships to offset the cost of tuition for international students

Scholarships and bursaries are one way to help offset the cost of tuition and living expenses for international students studying in Ireland. The different scholarships and bursaries available to international students are:

1. Government-funded scholarships

The Irish government offers several scholarships to international students based on academic merit and covers tuition fees and living expenses.

The Government of Ireland International Education Scholarship is a government-funded scholarship awarded to international students who have been accepted to study at an Irish higher education institution. The scholarship covers tuition fees and living expenses and is awarded based on academic merit.

The Kader Asmal Fellowship is a similar scholarship that is awarded to students from South Africa who wish to study in Ireland. This scholarship covers tuition fees, travel expenses, and a monthly stipend for living expenses.

The Irish Aid Fellowship Training Programme is another government-funded scholarship that provides funding for students from developing countries to study in Ireland. This scholarship covers tuition fees, travel expenses, and a monthly stipend for living expenses.

Also read: Why Indian students choose Ireland to study

2. University-specific scholarships

Most universities in Ireland offer scholarships to international students. These scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, financial need, or other criteria.

Trinity College Dublin offers the Trinity International Excellence Scholarship, which is awarded to students based on academic achievement, and this covers tuition fees and a stipend for living expenses.

The Global Excellence Undergraduate Scholarship is another scholarship offered by Trinity College Dublin, which is awarded to international students who have demonstrated academic excellence, and this covers tuition fees.

The University College Dublin offers Global Excellence Graduate Scholarships to international students pursuing a postgraduate degree at University College Dublin. The scholarships are awarded based on academic merit and financial need, and cover tuition fees and a stipend for living expenses.

Here’s a list of university-specific scholarships for your quick reference:

Also read: Study in Ireland without IELTS

3. Subject-specific scholarships

There are scholarships available that are specific to certain fields of study. For example, the Fulbright Commission in Ireland offers scholarships for postgraduate study in any field. This scholarship covers tuition fees, travel expenses, and a monthly stipend for living expenses.

The Walsh Fellowship is another scholarship that provides funding for research in agriculture and food science. This scholarship is awarded to students who have demonstrated academic excellence and covers tuition fees and a stipend for living expenses.

4. Non-governmental scholarships

Many non-governmental organisations offer scholarships to international students studying in Ireland. The Rotary Club of Dublin provides scholarships for international students studying at Trinity College Dublin. This scholarship covers tuition fees and a stipend for living expenses.

The Canon Collins Trust offers scholarships to students from Southern Africa studying at any university in Ireland. This scholarship covers tuition fees, travel expenses to and from Ireland, and a monthly stipend for living expenses.

Note: The deadlines for scholarships vary for different institutions and universities. The Government of Ireland International Education Scholarship has its deadline in March, while the deadline of the Trinity College Dublin Global Excellence Scholarship falls in April. You can check the scholarship page of the university or institution to know the specific deadline of the scholarship you wish to apply for.

Explore Ireland’s leading universities and know what comes next in your journey!

Part-time job opportunities for international students in Ireland

As an international student in Ireland, you can find several part-time job opportunities to support your finances and gain work experience. Job opportunities are available both on campus and off campus. To be eligible to work part-time, you should hold a valid Stamp 2 visa and must be enrolled in a full-time course of a minimum one-year duration.

You can work for 20 hours per week in part-time roles, while during holidays and breaks you are allowed to work up to 40 hours per week. 

On-campus opportunities include working as a library assistant, research assistant, or teaching assistant. You can also work in the administrative section and provide office support or take up jobs in on-campus cafes. 

You can look for part-time jobs outside the campus and gain diverse work experience. Plenty of jobs are available as retail assistants, customer service representatives, and call centre agents. There are also possibilities of working as a tutor either online or offline. Apart from this, various restaurants provide part-time jobs as front desk operators and kitchen staff.

The minimum wage you can expect is EUR 11.30 per hour.

Note: There are several sources you can use to find part-time jobs. Check the university’s website and career centre, where available jobs are usually listed. You can also explore LinkedIn, various online job boards, and attend career fairs.

How to apply to Ireland universities

The application process in Irish universities differs based on your study level. Undergraduate applicants should apply through the Central Applications Office while postgraduates can apply directly. 

Ireland has September and January intakes for international students. Before you apply, go through the eligibility criteria and ensure that you meet the admission requirements. Most universities require IELTS/TOEFL scores as proof of English language proficiency. You should also demonstrate good academic records through relevant certificates. Some universities may also require GMAT scores, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.

Here’s a step-by-step process for applying to Ireland universities:

1. Research and select your programme and universities.
2. Collect the required documents to support your eligibility.
3. If you are an undergraduate student, apply by registering with the Central Applications Office. If you are a postgraduate student, apply directly through the university’s online portal.
4. Complete the application form, upload the documents, and pay the application fee.
5. Submit the application form.

Note: You can also apply offline by downloading the application form and submitting it along with the documents at the relevant office.

You can submit documents and apply directly to leading Ireland universities via the Edvoy app and get end-to-end support.

Visa requirements 

You must apply for a student visa based on the duration of your study. If your course requires less than 90 days' stay, you can apply for a Short Stay C Visa, and if it’s more than 90 days, you must apply for a Long Stay D Visa.

While applying for the student visa, you must submit documents including your valid passport, letter of acceptance from the institution, passport-size photograph, proof of English language proficiency, health insurance proof, and proof of financial capability.

It’s recommended to apply at least 3 months before your date of travel to Ireland. You can apply online through the official website of the Irish Government. 

Thinking about studying in Ireland? Get clarity on what to expect before you apply!

Frequently asked questions

What does the tuition fee cover?

Tuition fee typically covers the cost of the educational program or course of study, including instruction, facilities, and equipment. However, tuition fee may not cover additional expenses such as textbooks, materials, and accommodation.

Is education cheap in Ireland for international students?

The Ireland education cost is generally considered to be more affordable compared to other popular study destinations such as the United States or the United Kingdom. However, it is still important to consider factors like tuition fees, living expenses, and other associated costs when assessing the affordability of studying in Ireland.

Can international students get financial aid or scholarships to study in Ireland?

Yes, many universities and institutions in Ireland offer scholarships and financial aid to international students. The availability and amount of scholarships can vary depending on the institution and course of study.

Can I pay my tuition fees in instalments?

Some institutions may allow students to pay tuition fees in instalments or offer a payment plan. It is important to check with the institution to see if this option is available.

Is it expensive to study in Ireland?

Studying in Ireland can be relatively expensive, especially for international students. Tuition fees, accommodation, living expenses, and healthcare costs are some of the factors that contribute to the overall expenses.

What are the best undergraduate programs in Ireland for international students?

Ireland is renowned for its high-quality education and offers a wide selection of undergraduate programs to international students like you. The courses are spread across in-demand disciplines including Business, Engineering, Computer Science, Data Science, Medicine, and more.

What are the top-ranked universities in Ireland?

The top-ranked universities in Ireland are Trinity College Dublin, University College Cork, University College Dublin, and Dublin City University. These universities provide a wide range of career-focused courses.

Are there any specific programs that offer financial aid beyond scholarships?

Yes, you can find numerous options for financial support beyond scholarships. These include research funding and grants.

How much is the tuition fee in Ireland?

The tuition fees in Ireland can vary depending on the level of study (undergraduate or postgraduate) and the specific course or program. On average, undergraduate tuition fees for international students range from around €5,000 to €25,000, while postgraduate fees can range from approximately €6,000 to €30,000 per year.

Is it expensive for Indians to study in Ireland?

The cost of studying in Ireland for Indian students can be relatively higher due to the currency exchange rate and additional expenses such as accommodation, living costs, and healthcare insurance. However, the overall affordability will depend on personal circumstances, available scholarships, and the chosen university or program.

How much bank balance is required for an Ireland student visa?

The exact bank balance requirement for an Ireland student visa can vary depending on the duration of the course, living expenses, and specific visa requirements. The general guideline is to show evidence of sufficient funds to cover tuition fees and living expenses, which is typically around €7,000 to €14,000 per year.

Thinking about studying in Ireland? Get clarity on what to expect before you apply!