Why Study in Ireland?
Top Reasons to Study in Ireland
There are so many reasons why international students want to study abroad in Ireland. Once they’ve made the decision to study abroad in Ireland, many will choose to live and study in the capital city of Dublin.
If you are trying to decide where to study abroad for your undergraduate or graduate degree, read on to find out why so many international students have chosen Ireland and Dublin.
Or, watch our video to find out more about studying at Ireland's Global University - UCD!
Study abroad in Ireland – for so many reasons!
One of the main reasons that international undergraduate and graduate students opt to study abroad in Ireland is that it is a perfect destination for anyone who wants a world-class education. Especially a world-class education in a progressive, innovative country with promising career options. Ireland is also an ideal destination for international students interested in stunning scenery, beautiful coastal and mountain walks, ancient culture and architecture. Those who prefer the indoors life will love Ireland’s numerous museums and art galleries, gourmet food, coffee culture and cosy pubs with their traditional live music.
Another highly attractive reason for international students to study abroad in Ireland is the stay-back visa option. Graduates wishing to stay on in Ireland after they complete their studies to pursue a career can avail of either one or two year stay-back visas.
Things to know before deciding to study abroad in Ireland
Before deciding to study abroad in Ireland, there are some important things you need to know. Ireland is a very safe, friendly and welcoming country. On the Global Peace Index Ireland is ranked 3rd in the world, and 13th in the World Happiness Index. Young Irish people have the fourth highest standard of education in the world, according to the OECD 2019 Education report.
The Bloomberg Innovation Index 2021 has ranked Ireland as the 17th most innovative country in the world. Ireland is also home to five of Forbes Top 10 companies; Apple, Google, Alphabet, Amazon and Samsung.
If you decide to study abroad in Ireland’s capital city Dublin, you will feel right at home! Dublin city topped the 2020 Condé Nast list of Europe’s friendliest cities – so you will be sure of a warm welcome! The cosmopolitan city centre has all the amenities of a European capital city, and is easily explored on foot or bike or on public transport.
Dublin is the gateway to exploring Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way and Ireland’s Ancient East. Here you will find beaches that attract surfers from around the world, cliffs, mountains, ancient ruins, hiking trails and world renowned food and hospitality. It’s also the gateway to mainland Europe with affordable and regular flights.
Is it any wonder so many international students decide to study abroad in Ireland?
Study at UCD if you want to study abroad in Ireland
If you have already decided to study abroad in Ireland, then your next decision is where to study. University College Dublin (UCD) is ranked in the top 1% of higher education institutions worldwide.
In the overall QS World University Rankings (WUR) 2022, UCD is 181 in the world. UCD is number one in Ireland for graduate employability, and 87th in the world (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2022). UCD has been number one for five consecutive years!
For the past two consecutive years, UCD has also been named the number one university in Ireland by US News & World.
Established in 1854, there are now over 38,000 students studying at UCD - more than 10,000 are international students from 152 different countries. Many of the 300,000 UCD global alumni network, living in 184 countries, hold positions in leading organisations around the world. The (opens in a new window)UCD Alumni Network is influential, successful, active and truly international.
UCD is situated on 133 hectares of beautiful, green parkland – one of the largest urban campuses in Europe. Students live and study in modern, world-class buildings surrounded by beautiful, green parkland, wildlife and fabulous facilities. Take our 3D campus tour to experience it for yourself!
Scholarships for International Students who Study Abroad in Ireland
UCD offers a wide variety of scholarships and awards for international students who choose to study abroad in Ireland. These awards are highly regarded by employers and industry and celebrate the diverse talents of our students.
There are also a number of Global Excellence Scholarships available to international students. They are competitively awarded based on academic merit and offered by country and/or by discipline. (Students must hold an offer before they can apply for a scholarship and full terms and conditions apply).
So there you have it! Just a few of the many reasons why international students choose to study abroad in Ireland. Why not check out our Ireland page for more about the land of a thousand welcomes. Or watch our YouTube videos to hear directly from international students why they (opens in a new window)call Ireland their home away from home.
You can also send our friendly team an enquiry at any time if you have more questions about studying abroad in Ireland!
