Quality education, myriad employment opportunities, and better life prospects in a foreign country have always appealed to ambitious Indian students to explore study abroad opportunities. For those aspiring students, Ireland has recently emerged as a major destination, offering everything that they expect from a foreign location, resulting in an unprecedented surge in Indian students studying in the country.

According to the Embassy of Ireland in India, the number of Indian students in Ireland has increased 10-fold in the last 10 years. It increased from around 700 in 2013 to more than 7,000 in 2023. They expect that the number will touch 10,000 soon. One of the fastest-growing economies in Europe, Ireland possesses some unique strengths, such as an English-speaking population, reputed universities, good weather conditions, and, most importantly, a welcoming nation, that appeals to students. What’s more, Ireland offers? Let’s take a deep dive.

Robust Education System

The primary reason why Indian students are choosing Ireland is its education system and the longstanding reputation of academic excellence of its universities, which offer more than 5,000 programmes, promising something for everyone’s needs. They attract students from over 160 countries.

Around 20 esteemed universities show an inclination towards admitting Indian students, including Trinity College, Dublin, University College, Dublin, University College Cork, Dublin City University, Dublin Business School, and Griffith College. These academic institutions offer a range of Bachelor’s, Master’s and Doctorate-level programmes across a wide range of disciplines, including science, engineering, business and finance, humanities, and the arts. They also offer undergraduate and postgraduate diplomas.

Friendly Visa Policies

The visa norms in Ireland add to its attraction. It allows non-EU/EEA students who have graduated from its universities to stay for 12 months and 24 months stay to postgraduates to seek employment. This two-year, stay back visa spurs students interest in moving to this country. Moreover, it permits international students to work up to 20 hours a week during academic terms and up to 40 hours a week in the holidays. After 24 months, students become eligible for the Green Card or Work Permit Scheme.

Abundant Employment Opportunities

Home to numerous multinational corporations (MNCs), Ireland offers a plethora of post-study work opportunities. The low corporate tax rate makes the country an attractive destination for MNCs to operate.

Today, the country has over 100 MNCs, including Google, Microsoft, and Facebook, which create numerous opportunities every year. The country needs a workforce equipped with a range of skills, including software, medicine, banking, and finance. Additionally, Ireland encourages entrepreneurship and provides a conducive ecosystem to start a business.

Welcoming Community: It is the most alluring aspect of Ireland, which is known for its multiculturalism and rich heritage. The increasing number of international students further adds to its diversity and culture. University campuses also foster multiculturalism, allowing students to experience diverse cultures, languages, and perspectives and understand the world better.

This improves emotional quotient (EQ) and prepares students to become true leaders to handle global challenges. Additionally, sports, arts, and yoga are an integral part of Ireland’s community. Student clubs and societies encourage students to participate in these activities. They can also join dramatic and political societies to socialise and expand their network and connections. Notably, Ireland has a significant portion of the Indian community, around 50,000 Indians, making it the right place for Indian students.

Ireland has emerged as one of the best alternatives for Indian students aspiring to earn a foreign degree and experience global exposure. To avail of this opportunity, students must choose the right test to meet visa requirements. The Pearson Test of English (PTE), one of the most popular English proficiency tests among students in India, is a computer-based test taken in a friendly environment. This test can ease visa approval while facilitating admissions in Ireland and is accepted by 100% of universities in Ireland.

Based on their academic and career goals and budget, they must also measure the offerings of Ireland and choose what suits them in advancing their careers.