Top Universities in Ireland for International Students

There are many reasons to study in Ireland: a safe environment, English-speaking educational excellence, an innovative and creative culture, and many global companies based there.

There are no specific country-wide admissions criteria for international students. SAT or ACT scores are required for American students at most(but not all) schools. Many schools have their programs categorized into different tiers, with different minimum scores required for each tier. International students apply directly to the school and don't use the national CAO system. It's important to note that there is a residency requirement for EU tuition status. Therefore, even if you have an EU passport, if you don't meet the residency requirement, you will apply as an international student. 

There are two categories for Proof of Means: Visa and Non-Visa. The rules for non-visa (US falls under non-visa) required students are as follows: Students who did not require a visa and who are studying in Ireland can avail of the following options as a means of demonstrating finances (on first registration) of a minimum level of €3000. 

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Students should make sure, however, that the option selected is available to them. It is the responsibility of the student to make sure that they are entitled to avail of the option they select, taking into account the requirements imposed by the bank or financial institution on opening and operating bank accounts in the State. 

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Option 

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(a) A statement in respect of an Irish bank account showing sufficient funds, where the student can open an Irish bank account

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(b) A current foreign bank statement not less than one month old, together with a past statement, for an account in the student's name (as in his or her passport), accompanied by a debit card in the same name and same bank account

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(c) documentary evidence that money is held in trust for a student by a financial services body regulated in Ireland by the Central Bank of Ireland.

Students can work full time in the summer and 20 hours a week during the school year.

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A work permit is not required, but students do need to register for a Personal Public Services Number (PPSN). After graduating, students can stay for 2 years to look for a job!

Students from the US can stay in Ireland without a visa but will need a residency permit. The immigration rules for students are also being revised.

Students can work full time in the summer and 20 hours a week during the school year. A work permit is not required, but students do need to register for a Personal Public Services Number (PPSN).

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After graduating, students can stay for 2 years to look for a job!