Discover affordable education options with the cheapest universities in Ireland! Universities like Trinity College Dublin, University College Dublin, and University of Limerick offer quality education for Indian students at reasonable prices.
With yearly costs ranging from INR 8L to 22L, studying in Ireland is much cheaper than popular universities in countries like the USA, UK, and Canada.
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Think about it: why pay more when you can get the same great education for less? Ireland’s universities provide an excellent academic experience without breaking the bank. So, if you dream of studying abroad without worrying about high fees, Ireland is the place to be.
Don’t miss out on the chance to pursue your education affordably in the charming landscapes of Ireland!
Top 10 Cheapest Universities in Ireland
Looking for a way to study in Ireland without spending too much money? Here, we will show you the top ten cheapest universities in Ireland. These schools offer a great education at a price that doesn’t break the bank, so you can pursue your dreams without worrying about the cost.
Trinity College, Dublin
The University of Dublin, Trinity College Dublin, was founded in 1592 in the peaceful city of Dublin. It is one of the most affordable universities in Ireland, with an average annual tuition fee of around INR 16L for a university degree.
TCD offers Undergraduate, Postgraduate, and E3 scholarships for international students, up to INR 4L. Many famous people have studied here, such as Oscar Wilde, Ernest Walton, and former Ireland president Mary Robinson. They offer undergraduate and postgraduate courses in arts, humanities, business, education, and engineering.
Here’s an overview:
| University Type | Public Research University |
| Undergraduate Fees for Indian Students | INR 16L – 35L |
| Postgraduate Fees for Indian Students | INR 7L – 15L |
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National College of Ireland
Established in 1951, the National College of Ireland (NCI) is known for being one of the most budget-friendly universities. Like Trinity College Dublin and the University of Dublin, NCI is in Dublin.
It is a private, not-for-profit college that receives government aid and charges a fixed, reasonable fee for undergraduate, postgraduate, and higher degree courses. NCI’s courses meet high standards and are approved by QQI (Quality and Qualifications Ireland).
They even offer special scholarships for international students, such as Master’s Academic Merit Scholarships, Higher Diploma Scholarships, Undergraduate Academic Scholarships, and Sports Sponsorship, giving you up to INR 3L per year.
Given below is the overview:
| University Type | Non-profit, state-aided education system |
| Undergraduate Fees for Indian Students | INR 8L |
| Postgraduate Fees for Indian Students | INR 13L |
| Higher Diploma Fee for Indian Students | INR 10L |
University College Cork
The University College of Cork (UCC) was established in 1845 and has its seat in Cork. Like the National College of Ireland, it’s a low-cost university in Ireland. The average tuition fee for international students is around INR 15L.
In addition to affordable fees, UCC offers scholarships such as the International Merit-Based Scholarships and CACSSS International Merit-Based Scholarships. If you do well academically, you could get scholarships worth up to INR 4L and have your whole fee waived.
The University of Chicago is famous for having top researchers, and it’s a great choice for students who are interested in research.
Given below is an overview:
| University Type | Public Research University |
| Undergraduate Fees for Indian Students | INR 15L – 21L |
| Postgraduate Fees for Indian Students | INR 10L – 25L |
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Dublin City University
Dublin City University, which is like TCD, U.C.D., and NCI in terms of affordability, has been identified as the cheapest university in Dublin. It was founded in 1975 and has five campuses. The cost of tuition for international students is approximately INR 11L per year.
In addition to the scholarships for good grades and financial assistance, DCU provides students from other countries with accommodation aid. Other scholarships, such as those from external organisations or specific allowances, can also be awarded depending on your study type.
DCU has over 3,000 students from 128 countries and is famous for its modern teaching methods.
Given below is an overview:
| University Type | Public University |
| Undergraduate Fees for Indian Students | INR 13L – 16L |
| Postgraduate Fees for Indian Students | INR 15L – 22L |
University of Limerick
Like the UCC, the University of Limerick is known for its affordability and good teaching and research programs. Founded in 1972, it charges an average tuition fee between INR 13L and 22L.
In addition to adequate fees, UL offers several scholarships to students from India, sports fans, and those awarded by the Republic of Ireland. These scholarships may offer discounts ranging from INR 1L to cover the full amount, depending on your academic performance.
The University of London offers many courses, including over 70 for students and over 100 for postgraduates and research programs.
Given below is an overview:
| University Type | Public Research University |
| Undergraduate Fees for Indian Students | INR 13L – 16L |
| Postgraduate Fees for Indian Students | INR 15L – 22L |
Maynooth University
Maynooth University, also known as the National University of Ireland, was founded in Maynooth city in 1997. It is known for its affordability, with an average tuition fee of INR 10L, the same as DUC.
Depending on what you study and how well you do, they offer scholarships to undergraduate and postgraduate degree students that may cover the entire fee or a 20% discount per year.
More than 34 departments are divided into three main areas: Arts, Celtic Studies and Philosophy, Social Sciences and Science and Engineering.
Given below is an overview:
| University Type | Public University |
| Undergraduate Fees for Indian Students | INR 14L – 16L |
| Postgraduate Fees for Indian Students | INR 11L – 16L |
Technological University Dublin
The Technological University of Dublin, the first technological university in Ireland, will be launched in 2019. Its annual fee is INR 10L, making it affordable compared to other universities we’ve discussed.
TU Dublin offers various scholarships, including the Macro, Conservatoire, Sustainable Timber Technology, and Cygnum Awards. These grants may be for specific courses, or they can cover all the yearly fees.
TU is an excellent choice for Indian students in Dublin who are interested in research and want to find a low-cost university in Ireland, such as UCC.
Given below is an overview:
| University Type | Public Research University |
| Undergraduate Fees for Indian Students | INR 11L – 12L |
| Postgraduate Fees for Indian Students | INR 11L – 16L |
Griffith College
Griffith College, founded in 1974, is one of Ireland’s largest private schools, with campuses in Dublin, Cork, and Lhann. It charges an average of INR 10L, making it a budget-friendly option compared to Dublin City University.
Griffith College offers the Griffith College Bursary and Academic Merit Scholarship for undergraduates and postgraduates, with scholarship amounts ranging from INR44k to 1L.
With more than 7,000 students, Griffith College is a respected school recognised by Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI).
Given below is an overview:
| University Type | Independent Higher Education College |
| Undergraduate Fees for Indian Students | INR 10L |
| Postgraduate Fees for Indian Students | INR 10L – 12L |
University of Galway
The University of Galway, founded in 1845 in Galway, Ireland, is one of the most affordable universities in the world. It charges an average of INR 11L per semester.
It’s known as a top research-focused school, similar to TU Dublin. It offers several notable scholarships, like the Global Achievement scholarship for college students, which can save you up to INR 1L on your tuition.
There are also the Business Postgraduate Merit Scholarships, which cover 50% of your tuition fee, and the Hardiman Scholarships for PhD students, which give you a stipend of INR 19L per year.
The University of Galway, in accordance with its motto, pursues the provision of quality education at prices that do not break the bank.
Given below is an overview:
| University Type | Public Research University |
| Undergraduate Fees for Indian Students | INR 16L – 23L |
| Postgraduate Fees for Indian Students | INR 12L – 17L |
Letterkenny Institute of Technology
In 1971 the Letterkenny Institute of Technology, also known as the Atlantic Technological University, was founded. With an average tuition fee of INR 9L, ATU is more affordable than the National College of Ireland.
ATU also provides partially funded scholarships, covering 50% of the fee for certain courses, in addition to its reduced tuition fees. In three faculties: Business, Engineering and Technology, and Science and Health, they offer a wide range of more than 130 courses.
Given below is an overview:
| University Type | Public Research University |
| Undergraduate Fees for Indian Students | INR 9L |
| Postgraduate Fees for Indian Students | INR 10L |
Cost of Studying in Ireland
Let’s take a look at the overall average cost of study in Ireland, as there are two main components to the cost of studying: how much you pay for your studies and what kind of living expenses you must have.
Tuition Cost in Ireland
In Ireland, ten universities, ten institutes of technology(IoT) and nine private educational institutions form the main components of the education system.
Given below is an overview of the tuition cost in Ireland
| Type of University | Tuition fee (INR) |
| Public Universities | INR 12L – 18L |
| Private Universities | INR 10L – 14L |
| Institutes of Technology | INR 8L – 11L |
Cost of Living in Ireland
It is more than just university fees and scholarships that you have to think about in order to understand how much it costs to study in Ireland. How much it costs to live there, you also have to think about. In Ireland, the breakdown of living expenses is as follows:
Here’s an overview of the cost of living in Ireland
| Expenses | Cost (INR) |
| Accommodation (on-campus) | INR 89k – 1L |
| Accommodation (off-campus) | INR 50k |
| Transportation | INR 12k |
| Food | INR 8k |
| Utilities | INR 6k |
| Healthcare | INR 3k |
| Miscellaneous | INR 6k |
Summing Up
Ireland is becoming a top choice for studying abroad because of its beautiful scenery and affordable universities. The Irish universities are guided by a high standard of education called the National Framework for Qualifications NFQ, which gives students numerous career opportunities.
It is very well known around the world that obtaining a university degree in Ireland leads to good paying jobs. According to the Higher Education Authority, more than 56% of graduates have good jobs in professional fields.
Dublin, the capital of Ireland, is home to big companies such as Google, Linkedin and Microsoft, which makes it easier to find a well paid job after graduation. You can pick the best university and course for your budget and interests with all this information on Ireland’s most cheap universities.
If you’re in need of help, the LeapScholar is on hand to guide you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. What are the advantages of studying in Ireland?
Ans. There are many benefits to being in Ireland. In the first place, Ireland’s universities maintain high standards of education, ensuring quality education. Secondly, degrees from Irish universities are globally recognised, opening doors to lucrative career opportunities. In addition, students have an enriching and diverse experience, fostering personal growth and global perspective, thanks to Ireland’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant cities.
Q. How much does it cost to study in Ireland?
Ans. The cost of studying in Ireland is different according to factors such as university, course and location. International students are expected to pay tuition fees ranging from approximately INR 9L to 22L per year in the case of undergraduate studies and approximately INR 10L to 25L per year in the case of postgraduate studies, on average. Living expenses, including accommodation, food and transport costs typically ranging between INR 6L to 11K a year should be accounted for by students.
Q. What is the average tuition fees at an Irish University?
Ans. An average of INR 8L to 22L per year in tuition fees for international students at an Irish university is typical. On the other hand, these figures may differ according to the university and its particular course of study. Students are advised to check the actual cost of their studies and universities.
Q. Are there scholarships available for International students?
Ans. Yes, there are scholarships available for international students in Germany. Many universities, as well as government and private organisations, offer scholarships to help cover tuition fees, living expenses, or both. These scholarships can be based on academic merit, financial need, or specific criteria related to the student’s field of study or background. Some scholarships may cover partial or full tuition fees, making studying in Germany more accessible for international students.
Q. What is the cost of living for international students?
Ans. The cost of living for international students in Germany typically ranges from INR 65k to 80k per month, depending on the city and lifestyle. This budget covers expenses like accommodation, food, transportation, health insurance, and leisure activities. Rent is usually the biggest expense, and students can save money by opting for shared accommodation or student dormitories.
Q. Can international students work part-time in Ireland?
Ans. Yes, international students in Ireland can work part-time while studying. Typically, students from non-EU/EEA countries are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays. However, it’s essential to check the specific visa regulations and restrictions set by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) to ensure compliance with the law.
Q. What are popular cities for studying in Ireland?
Ans. Some popular cities for studying in Ireland include Dublin, Cork, Galway, and Limerick. Dublin, the capital city, is home to several prestigious universities and offers a vibrant cultural and social scene. Cork, known as the “food capital of Ireland,” boasts a lively atmosphere and a range of academic institutions. Galway, with its artistic flair and youthful energy, is renowned for its music and arts scene, while Limerick offers a friendly and welcoming environment for students, along with excellent educational opportunities.
Q. What are some examples of well paying jobs in Ireland?
Ans. Some examples of well-paying jobs in Ireland include roles in technology, finance, and healthcare sectors. In the technology field, positions such as software engineer, data scientist, and cybersecurity analyst often command high salaries due to the demand for skilled professionals. In finance, roles like investment banker, financial analyst, and risk manager are well-compensated. Healthcare professions such as doctors, nurses, and pharmacists are typically well-paid due to the importance of healthcare services in Ireland’s economy.
Q. How diverse is the academic offering in Irish Universities?
Ans. Irish universities offer a diverse range of academic programs across various fields, catering to the interests and career aspirations of students. From traditional disciplines like arts, humanities, and sciences to emerging fields such as technology, entrepreneurship, and sustainability, students can choose from a wide array of courses. Irish universities often collaborate with industry partners to offer practical and innovative programs that prepare students for the evolving job market.
Q. Are degrees from Irish universities recognised globally?
Ans. Yes, degrees from Irish universities are widely recognised and respected globally. Irish universities adhere to high educational standards and accreditation processes, ensuring the quality and relevance of their programs. Graduates from Irish universities are sought after by employers worldwide for their strong academic foundations, critical thinking skills, and adaptability. Many Irish universities have partnerships and collaborations with institutions and organisations around the world, further enhancing the international recognition of their degrees.
Q. How do I choose the right university and course?
Ans. To choose the right university and course, consider factors such as your academic interests, career goals, location preferences, and budget. Research universities’ academic reputation, faculty expertise, and campus facilities. Evaluate course curriculum, internship opportunities, and alumni success stories. Additionally, seek advice from academic advisors, alumni, and online resources to make an informed decision aligned with your aspirations and circumstances.
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