Ireland Becomes Top Study Abroad Destination Post-Brexit

In the wake of Brexit, Ireland has rapidly ascended as a top choice for international students, offering a unique blend of English-language education within the European Union. This shift has sparked a notable trend in Ireland study abroad 2025 plans among students worldwide. Its strategic positioning, coupled with favorable immigration policies, affordability, and a robust academic environment, has made studying in Ireland more appealing than ever.

Surge in EU & Global Applications

• According to the Central Applications Office (CAO), applications from EU students to Irish institutions jumped 228%—from 1,945 in 2017 to 6,383 in 2022—clearly showcasing Ireland’s post-Brexit edge.
• The Irish Higher Education Authority (HEA) also reports that international student numbers grew from 18,500 in 2017 to over 25,000 in 2023, a surge of more than 35% in just six years.
• In the 2023/24 academic year, Ireland welcomed 40,400 international students, marking a 15% year-on-year growth and crossing the 40K milestone for the first time.
• With the UK no longer part of the EU, many students now consider study in Ireland post-Brexit to maintain their access to EU benefits.
• Ireland is now ranked #1 in Europe for English-speaking education within the EU, according to ICEF Monitor.

Indian Students on the Rise

• In 2024 alone, the number of Indian students applying to Irish institutions saw a 38% increase.
• The Irish government’s “Education in Ireland” initiative saw over 4,000 Indian students enrolled in Irish universities, making India one of the top five non-EU source countries.
• Sectors like Information Technology (IT), Life Sciences, and Pharmaceuticals are key pull factors, supported by Ireland being home to all top 10 global pharma companies.

Top-Ranked Universities in Ireland

Ireland is home to nine major universities, many of which rank in the top 3% globally, making them key contenders among the Top Irish universities for international students:

1. Trinity College Dublin – QS World Rank: #81
   
   
2. University College Dublin (UCD) – QS World Rank: #171
   
   
3. University of Galway – Ranked among top 300 globally

Additionally, 97% of Irish universities offer STEM and Business programs, highly sought after by students from around the world.

Scholarship Opportunities for International Students in Ireland

Ireland offers a variety of scholarships to attract and support international students, particularly from non-EU countries. These scholarships are provided by the Irish government, universities, and private organisations, aiming to reduce financial barriers and promote diversity in higher education.

1. Government of Ireland International Education Scholarships (GOI-IES)

The GOI-IES is a prestigious scholarship program funded by the Government of Ireland in partnership with Irish higher education institutions. Each year, 60 scholarships are awarded to high-calibre students from non-EU/EEA countries who wish to pursue full-time study at the master's or PhD level (NFQ levels 9 or 10) in Ireland.

2. University-Specific Scholarships

Many Irish universities offer their own scholarships to attract international students:

• Trinity College Dublin:
  
  • Global Excellence Postgraduate Scholarships offering partial tuition fee waivers.
    
  • Trinity Business School Scholarships for MBA and business-related programs.
• University College Dublin (UCD):
  
  • UCD Global Excellence Scholarships covering up to 100% of tuition fees.
    
  • UCD Smurfit Business School Scholarships for MBA and business students.
• National University of Ireland (NUI) Galway:
  
  • NUI Galway Merit Scholarships for outstanding students.
    
  • Galway International Student Scholarships covering tuition fees and a stipend.
• Dublin City University (DCU):
  
  • DCU International Student Scholarships providing partial funding for undergraduate and postgraduate programs.

Diverse International Student Body

Other significant source countries include:

1. United States: 5,655 students (11% increase)
2. China: 4,405 students (11% increase)
3. Germany: 1,210 students (15% increase)

Emerging markets like Mexico and Türkiye also saw substantial growth, with student numbers rising by 61% and 53%, respectively. 

Favorable Post-Study Work Opportunities

• Ireland's Third Level Graduate Scheme allows international students to remain in the country after graduation to seek employment:

1. Bachelor’s degree holders can stay for up to one year.
2. Master’s graduates are eligible for a two-year stay-back period.

Ireland has a 96% employment rate for postgraduates within six months of graduation, according to the HEA Graduate Outcomes Survey.

More than 1,600 multinational companies, including Google, Meta, and Pfizer, operate from Ireland, making it one of the top global employment hotspots post-education.

Conclusion

Statistically and strategically, studying in Ireland offers immense value in a post-Brexit world. With a 228% rise in EU student applications, 38% growth in Indian applicants, and highly ranked institutions, Ireland is no longer just an alternative to the UK. It’s the first-choice destination for thousands of students planning their Ireland study abroad 2025 journey.