Ireland Post-Study Work Visa benefits, mixed with its lush landscapes, tuition-friendly education system, and historic 40,000 international enrollments in the 2023-24 academic year and a 15% increase from previous years, it is becoming India’s favorite to study abroad.
Why Ireland is Gaining Popularity Among Indian Students
According to the latest report by ApplyBoard, based on data from Ireland’s Higher Education Authority (HEA), Indian students have emerged as the largest international student group in Ireland for the first time. Indian enrolments have grown nearly 50% year over year, now accounting for 18% of all international students in the country.
Affordability of higher education in Ireland is coupled with the availability of a two-year post-study work visa for master’s holders, for which traditional destinations such as the US, UK, or Canada are no longer as alluring.
Popular Fields of Study
Here are the fields of study attracting the most number of international students in 2023-24:
ICT (Information and Communication Technologies): Enrolments in ICT programs increased by a whopping 65%, and this reflects the increasing demand for tech talent in Ireland.
1. Health and Welfare
2. Business, Administration, and Law
3. Engineering, Manufacturing, and Construction
4. Arts and Humanities
ICT is on the verge of surging to the pinnacle as a favoured subject for international students in Ireland.
Postgraduate Studies
International students have tremendously surged into postgraduate studies within Ireland’s education structure. Master’s degrees have now become just about one-third in number, as compared to international students, who were merely 21% back in 2016-17.
It is driving this increase primarily by the employability in Ireland and post-study work visa for two years, thus attracting Indian students to come to this country to pursue advanced degrees.
Why Indian Students Prefer Ireland
1. Low Tuition Fees: Ireland offers good education at affordable tuition fees when compared with other favourite destination economies.
2. Opportunities in ICT: Ireland has a flourishing ICT industry providing good employability for tech enthusiasts.
3. World-Class Education: Universities in Ireland boast of innovative curricula and recognition across the world.
4. Post-Study Work Visa: The two-year work visa will equip graduates with excellent international experience.
Ireland vs. Traditional Destination
Ireland has become one of the fastest-growing study abroad destinations in recent times, superseding countries such as the US, UK, and Canada. Affordable, high-employability rates coupled with vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes will make for an all-rounded international student experience in Ireland.
Conclusion
It is no accident that Ireland is emerging as the destination of choice for Indian students. Its strategic focus on education, employability, and affordability, coupled with its growing demand for tech professionals, positions it as a top choice for students around the world.
Whether it is a master’s degree or studying ICT, Ireland promises a brighter future to Indian students seeking quality education and career opportunities abroad.
