Study in Ireland
If you want to embark on a journey and start your tertiary education at the world-class university that offers you from lavish green hills to vibrant, metropolitan cities, Ireland will be the perfect place for you! As a student, you get to experience it all, with a natural focus on excellent education in a society with close to no unemployment and a thriving business culture. Ireland offers a wide variety of opportunities, regardless of your interests and ambitions.
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What’s more, as a Malaysian, there is no visa required to study in Ireland, which means no complicated and mind numbing visa processes to follow and no expensive application fees to be paid! Besides, Due to generous tax incentives and highly educated workforce, Ireland is also home to many of the world’s leading companies which means more job opportunities.
Steps to study in Ireland
STEP 1:
Plan ahead – get the basics right
No matter where you are, moving abroad to study can become daunting if you’re not prepared well in advance. This includes picking the right program, applying to colleges of your choice, getting your documents in order, securing your visa, providing necessary proofs of affordability, looking for research or industry career opportunities etc.
STEP 2:
Where and what to study
Despite being an island nation, Ireland has quite a few top global universities and over 5000 study programs to choose from.
While Dublin, the ‘student hub’, remains the most popular destination, it is not your only option. There are other high-ranking universities in cities like Cork, Limerick, and Galway. You can pursue either your Bachelor’s Degree of three years, a Master’s Degree of one to two years or a Doctorate/PhD course. Many institutions also offer shorter certificate and diploma courses with global recognition and accreditation.
STEP 3:
Applying to University
Once you’ve narrowed down your destination city/target university and have an idea about which course to pursue, you must thoroughly research different programs across universities for detailed information about subjects, credits, cut-offs, deadlines for applications, tuition fees, etc. You can search online or contact the admissions office at the colleges.
Post this, you take your IELTS, TOEFL or GMAT exams for English language proficiency and get your Statement of Purpose, Essays, Resume and Letters of Recommendation in order. Other documents like academic transcripts, certificates for extra-curricular activities, passport, and proof of funds will also be needed.
Next, you need to fill in your application form directly with the university, and submit along with your documents. Generally, student intakes are during September and February months. Some colleges also require you to appear for an interview after shortlisting your application.
If successful, you get your acceptance letter from the college and can begin applying for a student visa.
​STEP 4:
Fees and expenses
Compared to most other destinations abroad, the cost of studying in Ireland is lower; and, with the benefit of job opportunities and post-study work options, Ireland is a true ‘value for money’ proposition for Indians.
In general course fees are between €10,000 and €20,000 per year. Irish universities offer several merit-based scholarships for Indian students. You can fill an online application mentioning why you should be nominated for scholarship and what benefits you shall bring from it to the university.
Other expenses include accommodation, travel, personal expenses, and mandatory medical insurance cost. These range from €7,000 to €12,000 per year, on average.
STEP 5:
Getting your visa
Malaysian students do not require a student visa to study in Ireland.
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For other nationalities where a student visa is required, the visa process can be completed online. You are required to fill up the application, typically for a long-stay single-entry student visa, along with required proof of funds and other documents.
STEP 6:
Living and accommodation
Most universities provide living arrangements for international students and many opt for on-campus housing in their university. This way, you get to experience different cultures and interact with other students. However, given huge demand, these are often difficult to find and you need to apply early.
Post-graduate students prefer off-campus, rented accommodation. University accommodation offices can help you find the most affordable option. You can also ‘homestay’ as a paying guest with a local Irish family.