Ireland is emerging as a top study-abroad destination. Its membership to the European Union, abundance of government scholarships and streamlined visa procedures make it increasingly attractive. This is evident in the growth of international students entering the region in recent years. upGrad GSP is partnered with several Irish universities poised to welcome students from all over the world. Here’s a list of the best Irish universities for international students in 2024.
Dublin City University
Dublin City University (DCU) is one of the top public universities in Ireland. It’s recognised for its excellent student-staff ratio and its accessible location in the cosmopolitan city of Dublin. Students enjoy access to state-of-the-art study facilities, three world-class libraries and campuses with a wide range of restaurants and cafes.
DCU is also renowned for its high graduate employability rate. It was ranked first in Ireland and 23rd in the world for graduate employability in 2022 (QS Graduate Employability Rankings). 96% of DCU graduates work or start further studies within six months. Plus, graduates have the highest median salary versus those from other Irish universities.
DCU hosts over 18,000 students from 122 countries, making it ideal for international students. Its DCU Global faction is designed to support foreigners at every step of their academic pursuit in the university.
Maynooth University
Maynooth University is a globally recognised institution that’s one of four constituent universities of the National University of Ireland. Despite just celebrating its 25th year in 2022, the university has already solidified its prestige. It ranks first in Ireland (and 85th in the world) in the 2023 Times Higher Education (THE) Best Young University Rankings.
With more than 15,000 students from over 100 countries, Maynooth is more than ready to have international students call its campus home. Its MU International Office ensures that international students are well-supported through multiple interactive services and resources as they experience Maynooth’s unique collegial culture and world-class academics.
Technological University Dublin
Technological University Dublin (TU Dublin) is Ireland’s first technological university. A leader in STEM disciplines, it has produced some of the country’s pioneers in science and technology. Its award-winning technology transfer and business incubation activity has delivered over 400 sustainable projects with an economic value of almost €700 million.
International students can choose from TU Dublin’s five locations: Grangegorman, Blanchardstown and Tallaght, as well as Aungier Street and Bolton Street. The school welcomes students from all over the world, with a population of over 140 nationalities currently enrolled.
University College Cork
University College Cork (UCC) is an award-winning institution, ranked in the top 1.1% of universities in the globe. It is known as the world’s first “Green Campus” for its sustainability strategy. It’s also the only university in Ireland to be awarded the Sunday Times University of the Year recognition on five occasions since the inception of the award in 2002.
UCC’s vibrant campus is home to more than 24,000 registered students, including 4,000 international students from 138+ countries worldwide. With strong student services support, multiple clubs and societies and several public events throughout the academic year, UCC ensures that all enrolees have a well-rounded academic experience.
University of Galway
Ranked first in Ireland for sustainable development (THE World Rankings), University of Galway is dedicated to shaping a better world through a learning environment that cares for both the student and the planet. It has a long-established reputation for research and teaching excellence. It also maintains a reputation for its unique culture, creative industries, medical technologies, marine ecology, and economy and innovation.
Its diverse student body, with enrolees from 122 countries, enjoys over 50 undergraduate degree courses and more than 200 postgraduate courses. This includes higher diplomas and masters degrees. They can also look forward to high employability prospects as 96% of graduates work or study further within six months of graduation.
University of Limerick
The University of Limerick (UL) is a young and energetic university with a proud record of educational innovation, research and scholarship. Its award-winning campus allows students to study in a safe and supportive environment. This is underscored by top-notch academics, as shown in their high student experience ratings.
Their UL Global office assists international students coming into the university to access their different programs, including more than 70 undergraduates programs, 100 postgraduate programs and exchange and summer school programs.
UL is among a list of cheap Irish universities for international students, making it more accessible and adding to its allure as a preferred study destination.
Explore study opportunities in Ireland
upGrad GSP can help you connect your students with our partner Irish universities. Contact our business development experts to explore the different options, and to learn more about how to apply to Irish universities.
