Thinking about studying abroad but can’t decide between Canada and Ireland? Both countries offer world-class education, great post-study opportunities, and welcoming environments for international students. However, which one is better for Indian students?
Why choose Canada or Ireland?
Each country has its own advantages. Canada is known for its affordable tuition fees, high-quality universities, and easier PR pathways, while Ireland is gaining popularity for its tech-driven economy, shorter master’s programs, and strong job market in fields like IT and business.
Why Compare Canada and Ireland?
Both offer post-study work visas for international students.
Tuition and living costs vary—Canada is more affordable for long-term settlement, while Ireland offers a shorter path to jobs in Europe.
Each country has its strengths in specific fields—Canada excels in engineering and healthcare, while Ireland is a hub for business and tech.
Let’s read about Canada vs Ireland for Indian students - the education system, costs, job prospects, PR opportunities, and more to help you decide which country is the best fit for you.
Both Canada and Ireland have strong education systems, but there are some key differences in how higher education is structured. Here’s a comparison to give you a better understanding:
Higher education in Ireland focuses on both academic knowledge and practical application.
Popular for arts, humanities, and business programs, with growing interest in tech and engineering fields.
Emphasis on research and developing specialized skills.
Grading system is also based on letter grades, but the system may differ slightly between institutions.
Popular Degrees & Courses:
Canada:
Engineering, Computer Science, Business Administration, and Health Sciences.
Known for strong research programs in Environmental Sciences and Technology.
Ireland:
Business, Arts & Humanities, Engineering, and Computer Science.
Growing focus on Digital Technology and Biomedical Sciences.
Academic Flexibility:
Canada offers more flexibility in course choices, especially at universities like the University of Toronto and UBC.
Ireland is slightly more structured but still offers various specialized programs.
Top Universities in Canada vs Top Universities in Ireland
Top Universities in Canada for Indian Students
Canada has several world-class universities that attract international students, including many from India. Here are some top choices:
University Name
QS Ranking 2025
University of Toronto
#25
McGill University
#29
University of British Columbia (UBC)
#38
Université de Montréal
#159
University of Alberta
#126
Queen's University
#96
University of Waterloo
#115
Western University
#120
Simon Fraser University
#319
Dalhousie University
#275
Top Universities in Ireland for Indian Students
Ireland offers a great education system with a growing reputation internationally, especially for students from India. Here are some top universities:
University Name
QS Ranking 2025
Trinity College Dublin
#87
University College Dublin (UCD)
#126
National University of Ireland Galway (NUI Galway)
#273
University of Limerick
#421
Dublin City University
#421
University College Cork
#273
Cost of Education: Canada vs Ireland for Indian Students
Tuition fees in Canada and Ireland vary depending on the university, course type, and level of study. On average, Canada offers more affordable options for international students, especially for STEM programs. Ireland, while slightly more expensive in some fields, provides strong industry connections, particularly in business and healthcare.
Tuition Fees Comparison
Course Type
Average Tuition in Canada (Per Year)
Average Tuition in Ireland (Per Year)
Undergraduate (STEM)
₹10–₹25 lakhs (CAD 15,000–CAD 40,000)
₹12–₹30 lakhs (€13,000–€35,000)
Undergraduate (Business & Finance)
₹9–₹22 lakhs (CAD 12,000–CAD 35,000)
₹10–₹28 lakhs (€12,000–€32,000)
Undergraduate (Healthcare & Medicine)
₹20–₹40 lakhs (CAD 30,000–CAD 55,000)
₹25–₹50 lakhs (€30,000–€60,000)
Master’s (STEM)
₹12–₹30 lakhs (CAD 18,000–CAD 45,000)
₹15–₹35 lakhs (€17,000–€40,000)
Master’s (Business & Finance)
₹15–₹35 lakhs (CAD 20,000–CAD 50,000)
₹18–₹40 lakhs (€20,000–€45,000)
Master’s (Healthcare & Medicine)
₹25–₹50 lakhs (CAD 35,000–CAD 70,000)
₹30–₹60 lakhs (€35,000–€75,000)
Canada generally offers lower tuition fees for STEM courses, whereas Ireland is a better option for business and healthcare programs due to its strong job market in these sectors.
Cost of Living: Canada vs Ireland for Indian Students
Living expenses depend on the city, accommodation type, and lifestyle. While Canada has a slightly lower cost of living, cities like Toronto and Vancouver can be expensive. Ireland’s Dublin is costly, but smaller cities like Cork and Galway are more budget-friendly.
Living Cost Comparison
Expense Type
Cost in Canada (Monthly)
Cost in Ireland (Monthly)
Accommodation (Shared Apartment)
₹60,000–₹1.2 lakhs (CAD 1,000–CAD 2,000)
₹70,000–₹1.3 lakhs (€850–€1,600)
Food & Groceries
₹25,000–₹40,000 (CAD 400–CAD 700)
₹30,000–₹50,000 (€350–€600)
Transportation
₹8,000–₹15,000 (CAD 100–CAD 200)
₹10,000–₹18,000 (€120–€220)
Utilities (Electricity, Internet, etc.)
₹8,000–₹12,000 (CAD 100–CAD 150)
₹9,000–₹15,000 (€110–€180)
Miscellaneous (Leisure, Gym, etc.)
₹10,000–₹20,000 (CAD 150–CAD 300)
₹12,000–₹25,000 (€140–€300)
Total Estimated Cost
₹1–₹1.8 lakhs (CAD 1,500–CAD 3,000)
₹1.2–₹2 lakhs (€1,800–€3,200)
In summary:
Canada offers cheaper rent in smaller cities like Edmonton, Ottawa, and Winnipeg.
Ireland is more expensive in Dublin but more affordable in cities like Limerick and Galway.
Transport and food costs are slightly lower in Canada than in Ireland.
Work Opportunities for Indian Students: Canada vs Ireland
Part-Time Work Rules for Students in Canada
For international students, part-time work is a great way to gain experience, earn extra money, and integrate into the community. Here’s a breakdown of part-time work rules in Canada:
Maximum Work Hours & Wages:
Indian students with a valid study permit can work up to 20 hours per week during semesters and full-time during scheduled breaks (winter/summer holidays).
The minimum wage varies by province, ranging from ₹1,000–₹1,400 per hour (CAD 15–CAD 20).
Types of Part-Time Jobs:
On-Campus Jobs: Library assistant, research assistant, administrative work.
Scholarship Options for Indian Students in Canada vs Ireland
Both Canada and Ireland offer a range of scholarships for Indian students through government funding, universities, and private organizations. Here’s a look at some key options:
Scholarships in Canada
Scholarship Name
Eligibility
Coverage Amount
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
PhD students with strong academic records
₹31–₹38 lakhs (CAD 50,000/year)
Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)
Master’s & PhD students in Ontario universities
₹9–₹11 lakhs (CAD 15,000)
University of Toronto Lester B. Pearson
Undergraduate students with leadership skills
Tuition + living costs
Canada-India Research Centre Scholarships
Indian students in STEM fields
₹5–₹10 lakhs (Partial funding)
UBC International Major Entrance Scholarship
High-achieving undergraduates at UBC
₹8–₹15 lakhs (CAD 10,000–CAD 25,000)
Scholarships in Ireland
Scholarship Name
Eligibility
Coverage Amount
Government of Ireland International Scholarship
Master’s & PhD students with academic merit
₹8–₹12 lakhs (€10,000)
Trinity College Dublin Global Excellence Scholarship
Undergraduate & postgraduate students
₹3–₹8 lakhs (€4,000–€10,000)
University College Dublin (UCD) Global Scholarship
High-achieving students at UCD
Partial tuition fee waiver
NUI Galway International Student Scholarship
Indian students at NUI Galway
₹3–₹7 lakhs (€3,500–€9,000)
Dublin City University Merit Scholarship
Merit-based award for postgraduates
Partial tuition funding
Key Takeaways:
Canada offers more fully funded scholarships, especially at the PhD level.
Ireland provides generous tuition waivers but has fewer full scholarships.
Visa Process: Canada vs Ireland for Indian Students
Getting a student visa is one of the most important steps in the process of studying abroad. Both Canada and Ireland have clear and structured visa processes, but there are some differences in the application steps and requirements.
Student Visa Process for Canada
Get an Acceptance Letter – Secure admission from a recognized Canadian institution.
Apply for a Study Permit – Submit your application online via the IRCC website.
Show Proof of Funds – You must demonstrate financial ability to cover tuition and living expenses (₹10–₹15 lakhs minimum).
Submit Biometrics & Medical Test – Attend a visa center for fingerprinting and a medical exam.
Visa Processing Time – Takes 4–8 weeks on average.
Post-Approval Steps – Receive your Port of Entry Letter and travel to Canada.
Student Visa Process for Ireland
University Admission – Accept your offer from an Irish university.
Apply for a Long-Stay ‘D’ Visa – Submit an online application through the AVATS system.
Financial Proof Required – Show proof of funds (at least ₹8–₹10 lakhs per year).
Health Insurance – Mandatory for non-EU students.
Visa Processing Time – Usually 4–6 weeks.
Post-Arrival Registration – Register with Irish Immigration for a residence permit.
Both Canada and Ireland have clear processes, but Canada’s visa approval time might be a bit longer. However, the Canada Study Permit offers more flexibility, allowing students to work part-time while studying.
Which Country Is Better for Specific Fields? (IT, Engineering, Business, Healthcare, etc.)
Both Canada and Ireland rank among the top study destinations globally, but which one is better for your field?
Best Country for IT and Computer Science
Global IT Job Market Size: Expected to reach $1.3 trillion by 2028
Average IT Graduate Salary:
Canada: ₹50–₹80 lakhs per year ($60,000–$100,000)
Ireland: ₹40–₹75 lakhs per year (€50,000–€90,000)
Table: Best Country for IT and Computer Science
Factor
Canada
Ireland
Tech Hubs
Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal
Dublin (EU Tech Hub)
Top Employers
Shopify, IBM, Microsoft, Google Canada
Google, Facebook, Microsoft, Amazon
Post-Study Work Visa
Up to 3 years
2 years
PR Opportunities
Strong
Moderate
Verdict: Canada offers more long-term job security and PR opportunities, while Ireland gives direct access to European tech companies.
Best Country for Engineering Students
Global Engineering Demand Growth: Projected 7% increase by 2030
Average Engineering Graduate Salary:
Canada: ₹40–₹70 lakhs per year ($50,000–$85,000)
Ireland: ₹38–₹68 lakhs per year (€45,000–€80,000)
Table: Best Country for Engineering Students
Factor
Canada
Ireland
Key Engineering Fields
Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Software
Biomedical, Pharma, Renewable Energy
Top Employers
SNC-Lavalin, Bombardier, Tesla
Medtronic, Pfizer, Intel
Licensing & Certification
PEO for engineers
Engineers Ireland certification
Work Visa Duration
Up to 3 years
2 years
Verdict: Canada is ideal for core engineering fields like civil, mechanical, and electrical, while Ireland excels in biomedical and pharma-related engineering.
Best Country for Business and Management Studies
MBA Average Salary Growth Post-Graduation: 40%–50% within 3 years
Average Salary After MBA:
Canada: ₹60–₹1.2 crore per year ($75,000–$150,000)
Ireland: ₹55–₹1 crore per year (€65,000–€125,000)
Table: Best Country for Business and Management Studies
Factor
Canada
Ireland
Top Business Schools
Rotman (Toronto), Schulich (York), UBC Sauder
Trinity College Dublin, UCD Smurfit Business School
Industries Hiring MBAs
Finance, Consulting, Technology
Finance, Startups, Investment Banking
Internship Opportunities
Co-op programs in major companies
Dublin’s financial sector internships
MBA Duration
2 years
1 year
Verdict: Canada is better for long-term job security and networking in North America, while Ireland offers quick access to Europe’s finance sector.
Best Country for Healthcare and Medical Fields
Global Healthcare Market Growth: Expected to hit $12 trillion by 2030
Average Healthcare Graduate Salary:
Canada: ₹50–₹90 lakhs per year ($60,000–$110,000)
Ireland: ₹45–₹85 lakhs per year (€55,000–€100,000)
Table: Best Country for Healthcare and Medical Fields
Factor
Canada
Ireland
Top Medical Schools
University of Toronto, McGill, UBC
Royal College of Surgeons Ireland (RCSI), UCD Medicine
Popular Fields
Nursing, Pharmacy, Medical Research
Biomedical Science, Pharmaceuticals
Licensing Requirements
MCCQE for medical graduates
Irish Medical Council Registration
PR Opportunities
Easier pathways for healthcare professionals
Easier access to European healthcare roles
Verdict: Canada is better for clinical roles and offers PR pathways for medical professionals, while Ireland is ideal for biomedical research and European healthcare careers.
How upGrad Abroad Can Help You Study in Canada and Ireland
Looking to study in Canada or Ireland? Whether it's understanding tuition fees, visa requirements, or post-study work options, upGrad Abroad offers the right support to make your journey smooth.
Step-by-Step Guidance
From tuition fees to visas, we’ve got all the essential details covered:
1. Which country offers better PR opportunities for Indian students?
Canada has a more structured PR pathway through programs like the Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). Ireland also offers PR options, but they require a longer stay and work experience before applying.
2. Is Canada or Ireland more affordable for international students?
Ireland's tuition fees are generally lower, but Canada's cost of living varies by city. Smaller Canadian cities offer lower expenses, making Canada a more affordable choice overall.
3. Which country has more job opportunities after graduation?
Canada has a stronger job market for international graduates, especially in IT, engineering, and healthcare. Ireland, being home to many multinational companies, offers good prospects in finance and technology.
4. Do Canadian universities offer better scholarships than Irish universities?
Canadian universities provide a wider range of scholarships, both government and institution-funded. Ireland also offers scholarships, but they are more limited compared to Canada.
5. What are the main differences in visa requirements for both countries?
Canada’s student visa process (Study Permit) allows students to apply for a work permit after graduation. Ireland's Stamp 2 student visa also permits work during studies, but post-study work visas are shorter.
6. How long can students stay back after studying in Canada vs Ireland?
Canada offers a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) of up to 3 years. In Ireland, graduates can stay for up to 2 years under the Third Level Graduate Scheme.
7. Which country has a lower cost of living for students?
Ireland’s cost of living, especially in Dublin, is high. Canadian cities like Toronto and Vancouver are also expensive, but students in smaller cities find it more affordable than Ireland.
8. Can Indian students work while studying in both countries?
Yes, both countries allow part-time work. In Canada, students can work up to 20 hours per week during the semester and full-time during breaks. Ireland allows the same, but finding jobs can be more competitive.
9. Which country is better for STEM courses?
Canada has more top-ranked universities for STEM courses, while Ireland is a hub for tech and pharma companies, offering strong industry exposure.
10. Are degrees from Irish universities recognized globally?
Yes, degrees from Ireland’s top universities, such as Trinity College Dublin and University College Dublin, are highly valued worldwide.
11. Do Indian students prefer Canada or Ireland for business and finance studies?
Canada has stronger MBA and finance programs, but Ireland offers a thriving finance sector with global banks and MNCs.
12. How does the weather affect student life in Canada vs Ireland?
Canada experiences harsh winters, especially in cities like Toronto and Montreal. Ireland has a milder climate but is rainy and windy year-round.
13. Which country has more English-taught courses?
Both Canada and Ireland offer English-taught programs, but Canada has more options across a wider range of universities.
14. What are the differences in part-time work wages in both countries?
Canada’s minimum wage varies by province, typically between CAD 15–CAD 17 per hour. In Ireland, the minimum wage is around €12.70 per hour, which is higher in comparison.
15. Which country offers easier student visa approval for Indian students?
Canada generally has a higher student visa approval rate compared to Ireland, as long as applicants meet financial and academic requirements.
Akansha Semwal is a content marketer at upGrad and has also worked as a social media marketer & sub-editor. Experienced in creating impressive Statement of Purpose, Essays, and LOR, she knows how to captivate the attention of Admissions Committee. Her research-driven;study-abroad articles helps aspirants to make the prudent decision. She holds a bachelor's & master's degree in Literature from the University of Delhi.
GPA CALCULATOR
EXPENSE CALCULATOR
Ielts band calculator
Education Loan Calculator
University partner
ACCOMMODATION
experience-center
)
