Ireland as study abroad destination

Study in Ireland:
The republic of Ireland (distinct from Northern Ireland, which is a part of United Kingdom) is getting popular destination among international students offering a high quality of education which is at par with education standards of the United Kingdom. Ireland is known historically as island of saints and scholars and has a strong tradition of education, research and training. Education in Ireland is highly valued and government has a focus for funding and development of it.Ireland is the largest exporter of software in the world and some of the major global information technology companies have their research and development centers located in Ireland. Ireland is a part of European Union.

Benefits of studying in Ireland:
• Top quality higher educational institutions recognized and accepted all over the world
• Higher education institutes have multi-disciplinary research programs;
• Hub of technological innovation and scientific research,
• Well developed and leading exporter of software and pharmaceuticals,
• Affordable education and low living expenses than the rest of the European Union countries.

Academic Culture in Ireland:
Ireland has a fully autonomous education system and most of the institutions are state funded. It has a well-structured education system which comprises of universities, institutes of technology and private independent colleges. All these institutes have programs and degrees at certificate, diploma, and graduate & post graduate levels in science, technology, engineering, business and other faculties. Most of the courses start in the month of September and the school year is usually split into two semesters. 

Accommodation:
When it comes to student accommodation in Ireland, it is usually organized by the institute as each institution has a dedicated housing department that helps student accommodation allocation both on campus and at off campus. Most of the universities and colleges in Ireland guarantee on campus accommodation to international student during first year of study. Besides, sharing accommodation is an excellent option of housing in Ireland. One can share flat or houses easily with other students and one can rent out entire housing unit. Flat sharing is most popular among international students in Ireland.

Living in Ireland:

A large number of international students choose Ireland as higher education destination due to its excellent education and welcoming culture. Ireland is open to immigration and people generally are acceptable. Major cities in Ireland have a cosmopolitan culture. Living and other costs are also as compared to other destinations in Europe.Live bands, music concerts and other festivals are regularly organized, besides there are other adventure activities like hiking, trekking and mountaineering. Food is a premier way of socializing in Ireland. Cuisine from all nationalities are reflected in Ireland and restaurants pride themselves on satisfying special religion and dietary requirements.

Working in Ireland:
International students enrolled in full time study for more than one year’s duration do not require a work permit. Students are allowed to work for twenty hours during term studies and for forty hours during vacations to support their studies.International students are allowed to take internships if it is the part of the study program. Ireland allows international students a post study work permit for a period of twenty-four months which is further renewable.