AbroadBro Score: 8/10
The Good: Ireland is known for its friendly and welcoming people, as well as its rich history and culture. The country has a strong reputation for education, particularly in fields such as business, technology, and the arts. The Irish countryside is also considered to be breathtakingly beautiful and offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. The public transportation is also well-connected and runs on time.
The Bad: Ireland can be quite expensive, particularly in terms of housing and food costs. The weather can also be unpredictable and can be quite damp. Traffic in major cities can also be heavy and congested.
The Ugly: The weather is very cold and unstable. Irish is known for heavy drinking and brawling. Tuition fees are high and finding an apartment is difficult.
Education Quality: Ireland has a strong reputation for education and is home to many prestigious universities and colleges. The quality of education is generally considered to be high, and the country is known for its strong programs in fields such as business, technology, and the arts.
Tuition Fees: Tuition fees in Ireland can vary depending on the institution and the program of study. However, they are generally considered to be high, particularly for international students. However, many universities and colleges in Ireland offer scholarships and financial aid to help offset the cost of tuition.
Educational Reputation: Ireland has a strong reputation for education, particularly in fields such as business, technology, and the arts. Many universities and colleges in Ireland are highly ranked and well-respected.
Student Visa Regime: Ireland has a relatively straightforward student visa regime, and the process for obtaining a student visa is generally considered to be easy. International students will need to provide proof of acceptance to an Irish institution, proof of financial support, and a valid passport.
Student Visa Extension: International students are allowed to apply for an extension of their student visa if their program of study is longer than the initial visa’s validity. They need to apply for an extension before the initial visa expires.
Student Immigration at the Airport: The immigration process at the airport for international students is relatively straightforward. Students will need to show their passports and student visa to the immigration officer, and answer a few basic questions about their plans in Ireland.
Attitude Towards Students: Irish people are known for their friendliness and welcoming attitude towards students. International students are generally well-received in Ireland and are able to make friends and connect with locals easily.
Post-study Job Opportunities: Ireland offers a variety of job opportunities for international students after graduation. Many international students find employment in the technology, business, and finance fields. However, the job market in Ireland is highly competitive, and it may take some time for international students to secure a job.
Post-Study Citizenship for International Students: International students in Ireland have the opportunity to apply for Irish citizenship after living in the country for a certain period of time, usually 5 years. This typically requires passing an Irish language and civic test and meeting the other requirements.
Income/Expensive Ratio: Ireland can be an expensive country to live in, particularly in terms of housing and food costs. However, salaries in Ireland are generally considered to be high, so the income-to-expense ratio is generally considered to be favorable.
Job Market: The job market in Ireland is highly competitive. However, many international students are able to secure employment after graduation, particularly in the technology, business, and finance fields.
Minimum Wages and average salary: The minimum wage in Ireland is €10.20 per hour for those aged 18-20 and €10.90 per hour for those aged 21-24. The average salary in Ireland is around €35,000 per year.
Local Language Difficulty: Irish is a difficult language to learn, but it is not widely spoken. Most people in Ireland speak English, so international students should have no problem communicating in English. However, it is always helpful for international students to learn some basic Irish, as it can make it easier to navigate daily life in Ireland and also show respect to the culture.
English Language Adaptation: English is widely spoken in Ireland and international students should have no problem adapting to the language. Many universities and colleges in Ireland also offer English language support for international students.
Racism: Racism does exist in Ireland, as in any country. However, Ireland is generally considered to be a very tolerant and multicultural society, and international students are generally able to live and study in Ireland without experiencing significant discrimination.
Natives Profile: Irish people are known for their friendly and welcoming attitude towards others. They are proud of their country and culture, and they value honesty, punctuality, and respect. They love to socialize and have a good time, and they are usually easy to approach.
Culture: Irish culture is heavily influenced by the country’s long history, as well as its geography and climate. Irish culture is known for its strong emphasis on music, literature, and storytelling. The country is also famous for its traditional pubs, which serve as a hub of social life and culture.
Food: Irish cuisine is known for its hearty and comforting dishes, such as stew, soda bread, and potatoes. Fish, meat and dairy products are common ingredients in Irish dishes. The country is also known for its beers and whiskeys.
Weather: Ireland has a temperate maritime climate, with mild winters and cool summers. Rain is common throughout the year, and the weather can be quite unpredictable. International students should be prepared for a variety of weather conditions.
Housing: Housing in Ireland can be expensive, particularly in major cities like Dublin. Many international students opt to live in student housing or shared apartments to save money. However, it is also possible to find affordable accommodation in smaller towns and villages.
Health/Medical: Ireland has a high-quality healthcare system that is available to all residents, including international students. The healthcare system is funded by taxes and is free at the point of service for EU citizens. International students will need to register with the Health Service Executive (HSE) to receive a personal health care card, which will allow them to access medical services. In addition, many universities in Ireland offer student health services, which are available to international students at a low cost.
Public Transportation: Ireland has a well-developed public transportation system that includes buses, trains, and trams. The system is efficient and reliable, making it easy for international students to get around the country. Many cities in Ireland also have bike-sharing programs and affordable taxi services. Additionally, the transportation system is integrated, so it is easy to transfer between different modes of transportation. Prices for public transportation are reasonable and students can get discounts on transportation with their student card.
Police: Ireland has a low crime rate, and the police are generally considered to be friendly and helpful. They are always ready to assist international students and the general public in case of emergency. The police in Ireland are known for their professionalism and integrity, and they are usually easy to approach. They enforce the law in a fair and impartial manner, and they are committed to maintaining a safe and secure environment for everyone. International students should not hesitate to reach out to the police if they feel unsafe or need assistance.