University preparation in Ireland for international students

Every year Ireland attracts many foreign students from all over the world. SMAPSE offers TOP-5 prestigious Irish schools  that provide high-quality preparation courses that will help enter prestigious universities in Ireland and in the world. Studying in one of 5 best schools in Ireland gives a great opportunity to get deep knowledge and open wide career prospects in the future.

Please, don't hesitate to contact SMAPSE experts at any time as they are always ready to answer all your questions. 

Securing a spot at a prestigious university in Ireland requires meticulous preparation and a proactive approach. These universities generally seek a high school diploma and, in some instances for international applicants, proof of coursework completed abroad. The competition for admission to the top universities in Ireland is fierce, making it essential for international students to meet all requirements that can bolster their chances of gaining admission.

Academic excellence is a cornerstone of these universities, demanding that a significant portion of your subjects reflect exceptional performance on your academic record. Additionally, language proficiency plays a crucial role, with a minimum of 6.0  IELTS and 550 TOEFL points expected. You might also be required to take academic subject exams in English.

Aspiring students have two pathways to access Irish colleges:

• Graduate from an Irish High School: Ideal for students who have planned their university path in advance and are prepared for this route.

• Pre-University Preparation Courses: Tailored for those who have completed their high school education and are now gearing up for university studies.

Sam Jones

Recruitment Director for Partnership with INTO Universities (Europe and Central Asia)

What firstly should be considered when choosing a university?

It depends on the student - everyone determines the most important criteria for himself. I would advise you to take several rankings and compare them with each other, plus take into account the cost of the course, the location of the university and its scale, the percentage of graduates' employment. See where graduates continue their studies or where they go to work.

The Irish education system follows age-appropriate programs aligned with British standards. Importantly, these programs are recognized worldwide and have long been synonymous with effective learning.

For instance, after completing the 8th grade, foreign students can benefit from a middle school program designed to offer a well-rounded education in fundamental subjects. It also enables students to explore their interests before entering high school and subsequently pursuing university studies.

The Leaving Certificate program targets high school students aged 16 to 18 who aspire to continue their education at Irish universities. This unique program focuses on university readiness, with students delving into several specialized subjects at a university level. The range of subjects is extensive, and students conclude their studies by undertaking challenging exams. Upon completion, they receive a highly esteemed certificate that readily paves their way into the UK's top universities, often without the need for additional entrance exams.

Alternatively, the International Baccalaureate, an international program akin to the British A-Level, opens doors to the world's leading universities upon its successful completion.

Pre-university programs cater to foreign students who have graduated from high school. These programs typically span three semesters or half an academic year and encompass both academic and language components. Throughout this period, students refine their language proficiency, master academic disciplines, and adapt to the Irish education system. These programs encourage independent learning and responsibility, nurturing students' sense of self-organization.

The International Foundation Year stands as one of the most popular courses for students aspiring to study in Ireland. This preparatory program offers two tracks: humanities and natural sciences. The cost of tuition, inclusive of accommodation and meals, approximates the fees at an average university for an academic year, totaling around 15,000 pounds. Enrollment can take place directly at universities or through specialized educational institutions. These institutions often have agreements with universities, facilitating seamless progression to the first academic year following course completion.

Essential documentation for applying to the International Foundation Year program typically includes:

• A high school diploma showcasing strong academic performance, with particular emphasis on profile subjects.

• Language exam certificates; course requirements are typically slightly lower.

Application Fees:

Undergraduate Level (Central Applications Office - CAO): The CAO processes undergraduate applications for Irish higher education institutions. There's an application fee associated with the CAO, which can vary but is typically around €45-€60 if you apply before the early deadline. Late applications can cost more.

Postgraduate Level: Applications for postgraduate programs are usually processed directly by the universities themselves. Fees can vary, but they're generally around €50.

Tuition Fees:

EU/EEA Students: If you’re from the EU/EEA, you might qualify for the Free Fees Initiative for undergraduate studies. However, you still have to pay the Student Contribution, which is around €3,000 per year.

Non-EU Students: If you're from outside the EU/EEA, fees can vary widely based on the institution and the course. For undergraduate programs, fees generally range from €9,000 to €25,000+ per year. For postgraduate programs, they can range from €9,150 to €37,000+ depending on the course and the university.

Remember that more specialized courses (like medicine) are typically at the higher end of this scale.

English Language Proficiency:

If English isn't your first language, you'll likely need to prove your proficiency. This usually involves taking an exam like IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE Academic. Exam fees vary but expect to pay:

IELTS: Around €200 - €230

TOEFL: Around €180 - €250

PTE Academic: Around €200

Foundation/Pathway Programs:

If you don’t meet the academic or English language requirements of your chosen university, you might need to take a foundation or pathway program. These programs prepare international students for university-level study in Ireland. Costs can vary widely based on the institution and the program's length, but generally, they range from €10,000 to €25,000 for the year.

Living Expenses:

While this isn't a "fee" associated with university preparation, it's a crucial cost to consider. Living costs can vary based on the city, but Dublin is typically the most expensive. On average, international students might spend between €7,000 to €12,000 per year on living expenses (accommodation, food, transportation, and other personal costs).

Health Insurance:

Non-EU students are required to have private health insurance when coming to Ireland. Costs can vary, but expect to pay between €500 and €800 per year for basic coverage.

Visa Application:

If you're a non-EU/EEA student, you'll need to apply for a student visa to study in Ireland. As of 2022, the visa application fee was €60 for a single entry and €100 for multiple entries. Note that visa applications might also require you to show proof of finances, ensuring you can cover your tuition and living expenses without relying on public funds.