Ireland is one of the fastest-growing places to study abroad, and the 2027 intake is now open for applications. This guide covers Ireland's top universities, tuition fees, popular programs, and work opportunities for international students.
Note: The September 2026 intake has closed. If you are planning to study in Ireland, you can now apply for the January 2027 or September 2027 intake, depending on your program.
Start your 2027 application in Ireland
Browse Irish university programs open for the 2027 intake and see what you're eligible for.
Why Study in Ireland in 2027?
Ireland attracts international students because it offers affordable tuition fees, English-language teaching, strong job outcomes, and access to the rest of the European Union. Ireland is also home to major offices for global tech and pharmaceutical companies. This gives graduates a direct path to top employers.
Affordable Tuition Fees
Ireland's tuition fees are generally lower than the UK or the US for similar programs, making it a strong value choice for international students.
English-Language Teaching
All programs are taught in English, so students do not need to learn a new language to study or work in Ireland.
Stable Job Market
Ireland is home to European headquarters for major tech and pharmaceutical companies, giving graduates access to global employers.
Access to Europe
Ireland's location and EU ties make it easy for students to travel and build a career across Europe after graduation.
How Many International Students Study in Ireland?
A record 44,500 international students enrolled in Irish institutions in the 2024/25 academic year, the most recent year with confirmed data at the time of writing. This was part of a steady four-year growth trend, with total international enrollments up 10% year-over-year.
Note: Enrollment numbers change every academic year. ApplyBoard ApplyInsights - International Enrolments in Ireland Report has the most current figures.
List of Top Universities in Ireland for International Students
Ireland has universities that belong to the Irish Universities Association (IUA). Members of this group rank in the top 3% of universities worldwide.
What Does It Cost to Study in Ireland?
Non-EU undergraduate tuition fees in Ireland typically range from €10,000 to €25,000 per year. This is generally lower than tuition fees in the UK or the US for similar programs. Living costs are separate from tuition fees and vary by city.
Read Cost of Living in Ireland: Guide for International Students for a full cost breakdown.
Tip! International students can apply for funding like the Government of Ireland International Education Scholarship (GOI-IES) or university-specific merit awards to help offset tuition fees.
Not sure what studying in Ireland will really cost you?
Talk to an ApplyBoard support counsellor about tuition fees, living costs, and scholarships for your specific program.
What Can International Students Study in Ireland?
Ireland is known for strong programs in technology, business, and health sciences. ICT (information and communication technology) programs have seen especially fast growth, with international student enrolment in ICT surging by over 65% in recent years to meet strong demand from Ireland's tech sector.
STEM & Computing
Ireland's tech sector drives strong demand for computing, engineering, and data science programs.
Business & Finance
Dublin's role as a financial hub supports well-regarded business and finance degrees.
Health Sciences
Ireland offers respected nursing, medicine, and allied health programs with strong clinical placement networks.
Sustainable Energy
Growing investment in renewable energy has created new master's programs in this field.
Can International Students Work in Ireland After Graduating?
Yes. Ireland offers a post-study work visa that lets international graduates stay and work after finishing their degree. Read Ireland Graduate Visa 2027: Stamp 1G and Third Level Scheme Guide for full details.
According to the Higher Education Authority (HEA), 76.6% of international graduates were employed within nine months of finishing their studies, with another 7.8% pursuing further study. Top employers for international graduates include major global companies and public institutions like Amazon, the HSE, and Irish universities.
Note: ApplyBoard helps students find and apply to programs in Ireland. Visa and immigration applications are handled directly with Irish immigration authorities. Speak with your ApplyBoard counsellor for guidance on next steps.
Is Ireland a Good Country for International Students?
Yes. Ireland ranks among the best countries for international students because of its safety, English-language environment, EU membership, and strong graduate job market. Compared to other popular destinations, Ireland offers lower tuition fees than the US and the UK, along with direct access to major EU tech and pharma employers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Ireland offers affordable tuition fees, English-language teaching, a safe environment, and strong job outcomes after graduation.
Non-EU undergraduate tuition fees typically range from €10,000 to €25,000 per year. Living costs vary by city and are separate from tuition fees.
Ireland has several strong universities, including Trinity College Dublin, University College Dublin, University College Cork, and University of Galway. The best choice depends on your program, city preference, and budget.
Yes, most international students on a student visa can work part-time during term and full-time during scheduled breaks. Work rights depend on your visa type.
Ireland's tuition fees are often lower than the UK for similar programs. Living costs vary by city in both countries.
Ready to explore Ireland?
Browse Irish university programs or talk to an ApplyBoard support counsellor about your application.