Are you planning to study abroad, and are expenses a concern? If you have Ireland as one of your preferred countries, you must ask yourself, how much will it cost? And more importantly, what scholarships in Ireland are available to help with the hefty costs? Worry not! Here, you will find all the information related to the cost of living, cost management strategies, and scholarship opportunities that will make it cheaper and easier to make Ireland your dream study destination.
Cost of Living in Ireland for International Students
Ireland is undoubtedly one of the best places to study. However, like any other popular destination, they have different costs of living depending on where you live in Ireland and your preferences. On average, international students in Ireland spend between 10 and 16 thousand euros a year on living expenses, aside from tuition fees.
Let’s look at what are the expenses that stand out the most:
- Accommodation
Most of your budget is likely to be spent on renting. This can be:
On campus: €600 – €1,200 per month
Private Rentals: €900 – €1,800 per month (depending on the city)
Shared apartments: €450 – €900 per month
Homestays with meals provided: €500 – €1,000 per month
Pro Tip: If you want to cut costs, look for shared accommodations and student residences, which usually include all the utilities.
- Food & Groceries
Monthly grocery expenditures are expected to range between €250 and €500, depending on meal preparation at home versus eating at restaurants. Supermarkets often have special deals, and cost-effective strategies such as meal prepping also help save money.
- Transportation
Public transport in Ireland is advanced, and travel discounts are available for students.
Dublin Leap Card (Student): ~€30 – €50 per month
Buses & trains (outside Dublin): ~€20 – €60 per month
Biking is also a preferred and cheaper mode of transportation in student-populated cities like Galway and Cork.
- Utilities & Internet
If utilities are not covered in your rent, budget about €100 – €150 per month for electricity, heating, and WiFi.
- Miscellaneous Expenses
Mobile Plan: €10 – €30 per month
Entertainment & Social Activities: €50 – €150 per month
Health Insurance: ~€150 – €300 per year (mandatory for non–EU students)
Scholarships in Ireland for International Students
After understanding the cost of living, let’s go over scholarship opportunities! Ireland provides numerous international students scholarships based on their grades, need, and field of study.
Here are some of the best scholarships in Ireland that can help finance your education:
- Government of Ireland International Education Scholarships
Who can apply? Non-EU/EEA students pursuing a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD degree
What does it cover? Full tuition fees + €10,000 stipend for one year
How to apply? Check the Higher Education Authority (HEA) website for application details.
- Irish Research Council Scholarships
Who can apply? Postgraduate students (Master’s & PhD) in research-based programs
What does it cover? Full tuition, research funding, and a monthly stipend
How to apply? Applications are submitted through the Irish Research Council.
- University-Specific Scholarships
Many universities offer their scholarships, including:
Trinity College Dublin Scholarships
University College Dublin Global Excellence Scholarships
National University of Ireland, Galway Merit Scholarships
How to Increase Your Chances of Winning a Scholarship
- Start Early
A broad range of scholarships is available today, and some may require preparation up to a year in advance. It is advisable to cover your bases by researching thoroughly early and preparing all the required documents.
- Maintain Strong Academics
Most scholarships are merit-based, so having a strong academic record increases your chances significantly.
- Craft a Strong Personal Statement
Purpose statements or essays are often requested as a personal statement with the application form. Make sure yours details what your goals and achievements are and the reason why you deserve the award.
- Get Strong Letters of Recommendation
Get your professors, mentors, or even employers to write generic recommendation letters demonstrating your skills and what you can do.
- Look for Additional Funding Options
Even though you may have received a scholarship, looking for part-time jobs, grants, and financial aid is a good idea to help you support your studies. International students who study in Ireland can work fifteen to twenty hours a week during semesters and forty hours during holidays.
Planning Your Budget for Studying in Ireland
It is an enjoyable and memorable experience for many students studying in Ireland. However, it is essential to plan financially. To help you study in Ireland, it is necessary to comprehend the living costs for a student and do proper research on the available scholarships offered by various institutions.
For more guidance, visit India’s 1st Hybrid Study Abroad Consultancy-Vision International’s Contact Us page or our FAQs.