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Ireland is an increasingly popular
destination for students from all over the world. The friendliness and
hospitality for which Irish people are renowned, contribute to the
ease with which overseas students adapt to the way of life and in
particular, student life.
Having developed from being a
predominantly agricultural economy in the 1950s Ireland is now a
thoroughly modern nation with well developed manufacturing and
international services sectors and has the highest economic growth rate
in the E.U. hence the title 'The Celtic Tiger'. The educated workforce
produced in Ireland by the education system has been a key factor in
attracting international investment to the country and in the growth
of the modern technological industries which have helped make Ireland
one of the fastest growing economies in the world.
The international dimension of
education is important in Ireland, which has one of the most trade
dependent economies in the world. The Irish Government has invested in
the internationalisation of our education system, both to promote the
international activities and linkages of our colleges and to encourage
students from overseas countries to study in Ireland.
Higher education in Ireland is judged
by international standards and the employment market for graduates is a
global one. Overseas students receive a quality education in a
friendly environment. They in turn enrich the educational experience
of our own students and bring an international dimension to our
campuses. Lifelong friendships and networks are formed between Irish
and overseas students which later enhance the cultural and trade
relationships between our countries.
Higher Education
Higher Education in Ireland consists of
the universities (with associated colleges of education), institutes
of technology, and a number of private independent colleges. The
universities and institutes of technology are autonomous and
self-governing, but are substantially state-funded
Independent Third Level colleges
These colleges offer programmes leading
to certificates, diplomas and degrees, which have received
recognition by Ireland 's national certification authority or from
other external accreditation institutions (such as universities).
Courses on offer include: Accountancy and Business Studies, Law, Hotel
& Catering, Tourism Studies and Art.
Student Expenses
The main costs that students can expect
to incur while in Ireland include fees, accommodation and living
expenses. These vary considerably depending on the course, the
institution and the lifestyle of the student.
Application Procedures
Studying overseas is a very enriching
experience however it can be quite costly, hence it is worth spending
time and consideration choosing the most suitable programme and most
appropriate institution.
Studying in Ireland
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If you require an entry visa for Ireland and would like to study here, you will need to present the following
with your Visa Application. |
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Copies of your educational qualifications. |
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Letter of acceptance
from a recognised school/college/university confirming that you have
been accepted on a course of study. The course of study must be full
time and have a minimum of 15 hours per week study time. |
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Evidence that the fees have been paid in full. |
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Evidence that you have sufficient funds to maintain yourself for at least the initial part of your stay. |
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Citizens of countries
which are not a member of the European Economic Area (EEA) who are
registered as full time students with the Garda National Immigration
Bureau are permitted to work part-time (up to a maximum of 20 hours a
week) to support themselves. |
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The Visa Application form can be downloaded here |
Contact Information
Visa Section
Irish Naturalisation & Immigration Service
Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform
13/14 Burgh Quay
Dublin 2
Telephone (within Ireland ): Lo-call 1890 551 500
(Helpline available 10:00am to 12:30pm Monday to Friday excluding Public Holidays)
Telephone (from outside Ireland): + 353 1 6167700
(Helpline available 10:00am to 12:30pm Monday to Friday excluding Public Holidays)
Email: visamail@justice.ie
Useful contacts
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