How much does it cost to study in Ireland?

Curious about managing expenses while studying in Ireland? Explore our estimates to guide you!
Studying overseas can be costly, but Ireland offers quality education at tuition rates lower than many other countries. With most undergraduate courses lasting 12 months compared to 16-24 months elsewhere, Ireland is an appealing choice for International students, offering abundant growth opportunities.

Before departing from home country, consider expenses like accommodation, food, health coverage, and travel, in addition to tuition fees, when estimating the cost of studying in Ireland. This aids in effective budget planning.

1. Tuition fees are a primary expense.

Tuition fees vary based on qualification and institution. Plan to budget approximately €10,000 to €25,000 annually to cover tuition. Humanities, education, and arts courses tend to be cheaper, while subjects like medicine, engineering, business, and management are often pricier. Postgraduate study typically incurs higher fees, with costs varying by program.

S.no.	Study program	Average fees (in Euros*)
1	Undergraduate program	€9,850 to €25,500 annually
2	Postgraduate master's degree	€9,500 to €34,500 annually
3	Doctoral degree	€9,500 to €34,500 annually

*Please note all fee figures are indicative

If you want to bring down your educational expenses, it is best to apply to various scholarships available for International students.

2. Where will you reside? Estimating accommodation expenses

Many Irish institutions offer on-campus housing for international students. Alternatively, you can explore off-campus options, such as sharing apartments with fellow International students. Seek assistance from your college's accommodation office. Accommodation costs can vary, ranging from approximately €427 per month (for independent living) depending on location and season. On-campus accommodation may range from €300 to €600 per month. Shared rooms typically cost around €400 per month, while private rooms in shared apartments can reach €850.

3. Visa and permit expenses

Securing a valid study visa for Ireland is essential, incurring costs of approximately €60. Our counselors can provide updated information on visa application procedures and associated expenses.

4. Daily living costs

Set aside funds for groceries, social outings, and emergencies. As a foreign student, maintaining a budget is crucial to avoid overspending. Monthly living expenses for international students typically range from €650 to €1,000 (approximate). Consider these common expenses when planning your budget:

Expenses	Average monthly cost (indicative)
Utilities (like electric/gas/refuse)	€30 - €50
Food expenses	€250 - €350
Travel expenses (monthly bus ticket expense)	€65 - €85
Book & stationary	€75
Mobile phone	€20
Personal expenses (specifically social & sports)	€200 - €300

5. Prioritize safety. Explore healthcare options and insurance

All International students traveling to Ireland must obtain medical insurance before starting their program. Medical insurance typically costs between €500 to €800 annually (approximate). Comprehensive health and support services are accessible to International students throughout Ireland.

6. Transportation. Determine your travel expenses

Unless your institution offers shuttle services to and from your accommodation, you will need to rely on public transportation options.

For short distances	You can make use of regional trains, buses, DART, LAUS or local taxi service, the schedule of which is available on the web. Transportation costs in Ireland shouldn’t cost you more than €135 on a monthly. It is a good idea to get a Student Travel Card for commuting around the city as they can reduce your costs by up to 40%.
For long distances	For travelling between different cities, you can avail any of the following options: Long-distance bus Rail Air

7. Stay informed about taxation

International students in Ireland can work up to 20 hours per week during academic terms and full-time during breaks. Any income earned in Ireland while studying is subject to taxation. Keep in mind that fluctuations in exchange rates may impact your budgeting. We recommend considering part-time employment opportunities during your studies or exploring scholarships offered by universities to help reduce the overall cost of studying abroad.

Tuition Fees Overview

The expenses for tuition differ based on the specific course, the institution, and whether you are categorized as an EU or non-EU student. These costs are subject to change, so it's advisable to verify the fees directly with your selected institution before commencing the application process. Explore the details relevant to your category using the tabs below.

EU Applicant Considerations

It's crucial to ascertain your status before applying to Irish higher education institutions, as your classification (EU/non-EU) remains unchanged throughout your studies, with no option to switch categories midway through a course. Distinct application procedures apply to EU and non-EU applicants.

EU Tuition Costs (Undergraduate)

The Higher Education Authority (HEA) covers tuition fees for Irish/EU nationals embarking on tertiary education for the first time, having been EU residents for at least three of the five years preceding third-level entry. However, exemptions apply to students in certain circumstances, such as repeating a semester/year or pursuing a second undergraduate course. Additionally, students holding a Level 6 or Level 7 qualification progressing to a Level 8 course in a different study area are not eligible for free tuition fees. Detailed eligibility criteria are available on www.hea.ie. If ineligible for "free" or EU fees, full non-EU (International) fees apply.

EU Tuition Costs (Postgraduate)

For the academic year 2022/2023, average tuition fees for postgraduate EU students at Irish higher education institutions are as follows:

Course Average Fees

Medicine & Related	From €18,000 to €32,000
Engineering	From €9,950 to €25,000
Science & Technology	From €9,950 to €27,000
Arts & Humanities	From €9,950 to €19,000
Business	From  €9,000 to €34,500

Graduate students who have been ordinarily resident* in the EU/EEA/Swiss Confederation** for a minimum of three years before enrollment may qualify for fees at the standard EU rate. Conversely, graduate students who do not meet the residency criteria must pay tuition fees at the non-EU (International) rate.

Definitions:

*Ordinarily resident refers to residing in the EU/EEA/Swiss Confederation for at least 183 days in any calendar year for a minimum of three years.
**EU/EEA/Swiss Confederation: Refer to the list of countries here.

CHILDREN OF IRISH EMIGRANTS AND OTHER QUALIFYING EUROPEAN CITIZENS
Starting from September 2014, an Irish, EU, EEA, or Swiss student who has completed at least five years of primary or secondary education in Ireland can benefit from EU fee rates.

If ineligible for EU fees, non-EU fees apply. Each educational institution sets its own fee structure, so it's advisable to contact the institutions of interest for specific fee details.

Regarding changes announced by the Minister for Education on March 17, 2014, pertaining to the assessment of third-level fees for the children of Irish emigrants:

• The changes apply to new undergraduate entrants from the 2014/15 academic session onward.
• The modifications do not impact the rules governing entitlement to free fees for undergraduate study but relate to students' eligibility for the EU fee rate instead of the Non-EU fee for their program.
• Documentary evidence confirming completion of at least five academic years of study in the EU/EEA/Switzerland (at either primary or post-primary) will be required by the University, such as certification from the attended schools.

Fees for Non-EU Students

Tuition fees vary significantly depending on the institution and study program. Given that tuition costs are subject to change, it's essential to verify fees with the institution(s) you intend to apply to.

Non-EU Undergraduate Tuition Costs

Tuition fees for undergraduate Non-EU students at higher education institutions for the 2022/2023 academic year are as follows:

Course average fees

	Undergraduate
Business	€9,850 - €19,500
Engineering	€9,850 - €25,500
Science & Technology	€9,850 - €25,500
Arts and Humanities	€9,850 - €19,500
Medicine & Health Sciences	€39,500- €55,000

Non-EU Postgraduate Tuition Costs

Tuition costs vary considerably depending on the institution and the study programme. Tuition costs do not remain static, so it is important to double-check fees with the Institution(s) you are considering applying to.

Tuition fees for 2022/2023 for Postgraduate, Non-E.U. students at a higher education institution are as follows:

Course average fees

	Postgraduate
Business	€9,950 - €34,500
Engineering	€9,950 - €25,000
Science & Technology	€9,950 - €27,000
Arts and Humanities	€9,950 - €19,000
Medicine & Health Sciences	€18,000 - €32,000

Scholarship Opportunities

Numerous scholarships are available for international students from various sources such as the Government of Ireland, Irish higher education institutions, and other organizations. These scholarships are granted at the discretion of the respective organizations, each setting its own eligibility criteria. Students are advised to directly contact their preferred institution or organization to obtain detailed information.

• Irish Aid funded Fellowship Training Programme (Applications now open for scholarships for Tanzanian citizens)
• Government of Ireland – International Education Scholarships 2022 - Higher Education Authority (hea.ie)

Living in Ireland

The renowned friendliness and hospitality of the Irish people contribute to the seamless adaptation of overseas students to life in Ireland, particularly student life. The following sections cover essential topics you should be acquainted with before deciding to come to Ireland, upon arrival, and while residing here.

Living Expenses

Before choosing to study in Ireland, ensure you have adequate funds to cover your living expenses. For visa applicants, demonstrating financial capability is part of the application process. While part-time work may supplement your income, it should not be relied upon entirely.

The exact amount required varies depending on your location in Ireland, chosen accommodation type, and personal lifestyle. On average, students spend between €10,000 and €16,000 annually.

One-Time Costs

In addition to course expenses, there are other one-time costs associated with traveling to Ireland. These include visa application fees, travel insurance, medical insurance, baggage fees, police registration, television, mobile phone, and accommodation deposit.

Health Insurance

• European Students: EU/EEA regulations entitle students from member states to free hospital services with Form E.109. Documentation validating entitlement from your home country is necessary.
• Non-European Students: Private medical insurance is required as non-EU students are not covered for off-campus medical attention. Proof of comprehensive medical insurance is mandatory for visa applications and registration with the Garda National Immigration Bureau.

Accommodation

• Student Accommodation: Options include on-campus accommodation, self-catering rented accommodation, or living with a host family. On-campus accommodation, although in high demand, offers private bedrooms and shared facilities. Monthly rent is paid in advance, with a refundable deposit.
• Finding Accommodation: Universities have accommodation offices, and rental properties can be found through local newspapers, estate agents, and online platforms like Daft.ie and MyHome.ie. Consider proximity to campus, transportation options, and budget when selecting accommodation.

Considerations

• Commence your accommodation search early.
• Conduct thorough online research.
• Budget wisely and live within your means.

Food

In Ireland, you'll find a delightful array of cuisines reflecting its cosmopolitan and multicultural society, offering a rich tapestry of flavors that cater to diverse tastes and budgets. From casual takeaways to upscale dining experiences, there's something to satisfy every palate, thanks to the country's fresh, quality ingredients sourced from its favorable climate and location.

The dining scene in Ireland embraces culinary traditions from around the world, with restaurants accommodating various dietary preferences and religious requirements. Whether dining out or enjoying a meal at home, food remains a central element of socializing, fostering connections and friendships over coffee and cake.

In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in traditional Irish favorites, with many households still cherishing age-old recipes like Irish stew, bacon and cabbage, and coddle. Despite evolving cooking trends, these classic dishes hold a special place in Irish culinary heritage.

For students on a budget, Ireland offers affordable options for healthy, fresh, and non-processed food, alongside tempting indulgences for special occasions. Coffee shops and restaurants have varied opening hours, while service stations provide hot food from early morning until late at night, with snack shops extending hours until 11pm or midnight.

Among the national specialties are Dublin Bay prawns, oysters served with Guinness and wholemeal bread, Irish stew made with lamb or beef, colcannon (potatoes and cabbage), bacon and cabbage, soda bread, and the famous Irish breakfast featuring bacon, egg, sausage, black and white pudding, and fried tomatoes.

Irish whiskey and stout stand out as distinctive alcoholic beverages, with whiskey known for its unique flavor and stout enjoyed both bottled and on tap, reflecting Ireland's rich drinking culture.

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