Frequently Asked Questions?

Why should I choose Ireland for higher education?

Ireland offers a globally respected education system, is home to top-ranked universities, and provides access to major global companies (especially in tech, pharma, and finance). It is an English-speaking country within the EU, and international students are welcomed and supported.

What types of qualifications can I pursue in Ireland?

You can pursue:

  • Undergraduate degrees (NFQ Level 7 or 8)
  • Postgraduate diplomas (Level 9)
  • Master’s degrees (Level 9)
  • Doctorates (Level 10)
What are the language requirements?

English proficiency tests accepted include IELTS (usually 6.0–6.5), TOEFL (80+ IBT), or Duolingo (105+). Requirements vary by institution and course.

What are the tuition fees?
  • Undergraduate programs: €6,000–13,000/year
  • Postgraduate programs: €11,000–35,000/year
What is the cost of living?

Estimated €10,000–12,000 per year ,depending on the city (Dublin is more expensive). Students need to show at least €10,000 for visa purposes.

Are scholarships available?

Yes. Many institutions offer merit-based scholarships ranging from €1,000–5,000. Some government-backed programs (e.g., Government of Ireland International Education Scholarships) provide tuition waivers and stipends.

How much bank balance is required?

Students must show at least €10,000, ideally held for 6 months. If using a sponsor (e.g., parent), a sponsorship letter, their bank statements, and proof of relationship are required.

Is an interview required?

No interview Is required . Biometrics are mandatory.

Is any medical test required?

No medical test is usually required unless specified.

What is the visa application fee?
  • Single entry: €126
  • Multiple entry: €166
    This may vary slightly based on your location.
What if my visa is refused?

You’ll receive a refusal letter outlining reasons. You can appeal within 2 months with additional evidence or corrections or you can reapply for next intake.

Can I work while studying in Ireland?

Yes. Students on full-time courses lasting at least one year (Level 9 or above) can work:

  • 20 hours/week during term time
  • 40 hours/week during holidays (e.g., June–September, December 15–January 15)
Can I stay in Ireland after graduation?

Yes. You may be eligible for the Third Level Graduate Scheme, allowing you to stay:

  • 12 months (undergraduate degree holders)
  • 24 months (postgraduate degree holders)

During this period, you can seek employment and apply for work permits.

Can I study ACCA in Ireland as an international student?

Yes, Ireland offers several ACCA-accredited institutes (e.g., Griffith College, Dublin Business School, ICD). These programs are eligible for student visas if they are full-time and listed on the ILEP (Interim List of Eligible Programmes). ACCA is highly regarded in Ireland and globally, and many graduates secure employment in audit firms, financial services, and multinational corporations.

Is ACCA considered a degree? Can I apply for a post-study work visa after ACCA?

ACCA is a professional qualification, not an academic degree. Therefore, ACCA alone does not qualify for the Third Level Graduate Scheme. However, if ACCA is part of a degree-awarding program (e.g., BSc in Applied Accounting through Oxford Brookes University), it may make you eligible. Check if your specific course is listed on the ILEP and grants a Level 8 or 9 qualification for post-study stay rights.

Can I bring dependents (spouse/children)?

Generally, international students cannot bring dependents initially. After securing post-study work or work permit, you may apply for family reunification.

Can under-18 international students study in Ireland?

Yes, students under 18 can study in Ireland, primarily at secondary schools or language institutes. However, they must have:

  • A nominated guardian resident in Ireland
  • Parental consent documents
  • Proof of appropriate accommodation and welfare arrangements

Some schools may assist with these procedures, and INIS will require thorough documentation as part of the visa process.

What types of accommodation are available?
  • On-campus dormitories (€400–800/month)
  • Shared student apartments (€300–600/month)
  • Host families or private rentals
Is healthcare provided?

Students are required to purchase private health insurance before entering Ireland. Some colleges offer this as part of the tuition package.

What job opportunities are available for international students during and after their studies in Ireland?

Ireland offers excellent job opportunities for international students, both during and after their studies. While studying, students enrolled in full-time courses listed on the Interim List of Eligible Programmes (ILEP) are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and 40 hours per week during holidays (typically June to September and December 15 to January 15). These part-time roles are commonly available in retail, hospitality, customer service, and on-campus jobs.

After graduation, students completing Level 9 (Master’s) or Level 10 (PhD) qualifications may stay in Ireland under the Third Level Graduate Scheme—12 months for Level 8 (bachelor’s degree) graduates and up to 24 months for Level 9 and 10 graduates. During this period, they can work full-time (up to 40 hours/week) and seek employment in their field of study. Many international graduates secure roles in Ireland’s thriving sectors like finance, information technology, pharmaceuticals, business analytics, and fintech.

Ireland’s close ties with multinational companies (such as Google, Meta, Apple, Pfizer, and Accenture) further enhance job prospects, especially in cities like Dublin, Cork, and Galway. Graduates who receive an offer of a relevant job with a minimum salary may also transition to a General Employment Permit or Critical Skills Employment Permit, which can eventually lead to long-term residency.

What are the best websites to find part-time or full-time jobs?
Can international students apply for permanent residency in Ireland?

While studying in Ireland does not directly lead to permanent residency, students who transition to employment (especially via the Critical Skills Employment Permit) may eventually qualify. After 5 years of legal residence under work permits, you can apply for Stamp 4, and after 8 years, you may be eligible to apply for long-term residency or naturalization depending on your status and continuous legal stay.

What should I do immediately after arriving in Ireland?

You should:
– Pass through immigration control with your documents ready.
– Get an Irish SIM card at the airport.
– Register with the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB) within 90 days.
– Open a local bank account.
– Arrange your long-term accommodation.

How do I register with GNIB?

You must book an appointment online at: https://www.irishimmigration.ie/burgh-quay-appointments
Bring:
– Valid passport
– Student ID
– Proof of fee payment and financial support
– Private health insurance
– €300 fee (credit/debit card) and Visa Renewal / Extension

When do I need to renew my student visa?

You need to renew if:
– You’re progressing to another academic year.
– You deferred/repeated courses.
– Your studies extend beyond your original visa.

How do I renew my student visa?

Online renewal:
– Visit: https://www.irishimmigration.ie/registering-your-immigration-permission/how-to-renew-your-current-permission/
– Upload documents (passport, proof of study, finances)
– Pay the fee online.
– Your new IRP card will be posted to you.

Email: immigrationsupport@justice.ie
For special cases: unit1residencedivision@justice.ie

Banking in Ireland

How do I open a bank account?

You’ll need:
– Proof of identity (passport)
– Proof of address in Ireland
– Letter from your college confirming enrollment
You can open accounts in-person or through apps like MoneyJar.

Is health insurance mandatory in Ireland for students?

Yes, private medical insurance is mandatory for visa purposes.

Which insurance providers can I use?

Common providers include: Laya Healthcare, VHI, Aviva, and Study and Protect (Arachas).

How do I make a claim?

Present your insurance card or policy number at the clinic. Pay upfront if needed and claim later online with invoices and medical documentation.

Muslim Life in Ireland

Are there mosques and halal food available in Ireland?

Yes, there are over 50 mosques and halal butchers throughout Ireland. Many universities offer multi-faith prayer rooms.

Major Mosques in Ireland

Dublin

Islamic Foundation of Ireland (IFI)
📍 163 South Circular Road, Dublin 8
🔗 www.islamicfoundation.ie

Dublin Mosque / Clonskeagh Mosque
📍 Islamic Cultural Centre of Ireland (ICCI), Clonskeagh
🔗 www.icci.ie

Ballyhaunis Mosque
📍 Clare Street, Ballyhaunis, Co. Mayo

Blackpitts Mosque
📍 22 Blackpitts, Dublin 8

Cork

Cork Mosque (ICCI Cork)
📍 15 Pope’s Quay, Cork City
🔗 www.iccicork.com

Blarney Street Mosque
📍 19 Blarney St, Cork

Galway

Galway Mosque / Galway Islamic Cultural Centre
📍 1 Old Seamus Quirke Road, Westside, Galway
🔗 www.gicc.ie

Popular Halal Food Points

Dublin

Kebabish Original – Camden Street

Namaste India – Talbot Street (Indian & Pakistani cuisine)

Al Madina Halal Takeaway – Clanbrassil Street

Dera Restaurant – South Circular Road (Pakistani restaurant)

Taza Takeaway – Ranelagh

Khyber Tandoori – Crumlin

Halal Grocery Stores in Dublin

EuroGiant – Various branches with halal sections

Spice World – Camden Street

Global Foods Store – Talbot Street

Madina Halal Meats – Clanbrassil Street

Cork

Curry House – McCurtain Street

Istanbul Kebab – Washington Street

Ali’s Kitchen – Grand Parade

Pak Asia Food Store – Barrack Street

Galway

Eastern Tandoori – Spanish Parade

Shalimar Restaurant – Westside

The Chili Shack – Abbeygate Street

Asia Market & Halal Butcher – Headford Road

Are there Muslim community events like Eid gatherings?

Yes, Eid is celebrated with congregational prayers and social events in major cities.

Where can I search for accommodation in Ireland?
What is the average cost of accommodation?
  • Shared room (on-campus): €6,000/year
  • Single ensuite: €11,800/year
  • Apartment: €230/week
  • Homestay: ~€700/4 weeks
How to Apply?

Our experienced IEO counsellors will help you put together your application and certify the supporting documents. Your counsellor will then submit your application on your behalf to Irish university or institution of choice.

Meet an IEO counsellor ?

You can schedule an appointment with one of our counsellors by completing an online enquiry or calling Ireland Education office

Documents ?
  1. Valid passport 
  2. School (or academic) transcripts
  3. Your CV