Top 10 Cheap Universities in Ireland for International Students

Did you know that Ireland has over 32,000 international students? Many choose Ireland because it offers good education at lower costs than the US or UK. Tuition fees here can be 30–50% cheaper than in other top countries.

Ireland is also one of the safest countries in the world. Big companies like Google, Facebook, and Microsoft have offices here, so there are good job opportunities after graduation.

If you want to study in Ireland without spending too much, this blog is for you. We will look at the 10 cheap universities in Ireland, their tuition fees, admission rules, and why they are a good choice for students from other countries.

Read: Ireland vs Canada to Study

Cheap Universities in Ireland for International Students

Thinking about studying in Ireland but worried about the cost? Over the years, the number of international students in Ireland has been increasing, and for good reason—affordable tuition, excellent job prospects, and a welcoming environment.

Let’s take a look at some of the most budget-friendly universities in Ireland, what they offer, and what you need to get in.

1. Dublin Business School (DBS)

Dublin Business School (DBS) has been around since 1975 and is one of Ireland’s largest independent colleges. It has over 9,000 students and offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and professional courses in business, law, arts, and IT. DBS is well-known for its practical learning approach, which helps students gain skills that employers actually look for.

Tuition Fees:

• Undergraduate: €12,000 per year (Approx. ₹10.7 lakh)
• Postgraduate: €12,000–€12,500 per year (Approx. ₹10.7–₹11.2 lakh)
• MBA: €12,000–€12,500 per year (Approx. ₹10.7–₹11.2 lakh)

Popular Courses & Career Prospects:

DBS offers programs in:

• Business & Management – Opens doors to jobs in marketing, HR, and finance.
• Computing & IT – Good choice for those aiming for tech-related careers.
• Law & Social Science – Suitable for careers in law firms, public policy, and NGOs.

Graduates from DBS often find jobs in multinational companies, finance firms, and tech industries in Ireland and beyond.

Admission Requirements:

• For undergraduate courses: You’ll need a recognized school-leaving certificate (equivalent to Irish Leaving Certificate).
• For postgraduate courses: A bachelor’s degree in a related field.
• English requirement: IELTS 6.0 or equivalent.
• Application deadline: Varies by program—check their website for details.

2. Griffith College Dublin

Griffith College is one of Ireland’s oldest private colleges, founded in 1974. It has campuses in Dublin, Cork, and Limerick, with a student population of over 7,000. The college offers career-focused programs in business, law, computing, journalism, and design.

Tuition Fees:

• Undergraduate: Approx. €12,000 per year (Approx. ₹10.7 lakh)
• Postgraduate: Approx. €12,000–€15,000 per year (Approx. ₹10.7–₹13.4 lakh)

Popular Courses & Career Prospects:

• Business & Finance – Great for those interested in working in banking, marketing, or management.
• Computing & IT – Helps students build careers in cybersecurity, data analytics, and AI.
• Design & Media – Offers courses in fashion, interior design, and creative media.

With a strong focus on practical training, many students get internships and job placements during or after their studies.

Admission Requirements:

• For undergraduate courses: Completion of 12th grade (or equivalent).
• For postgraduate courses: A relevant bachelor's degree.
• English requirement: IELTS 6.5 or equivalent.
• Application deadline: Varies—check their website for exact dates.

3. National College of Ireland (NCI)

National College of Ireland (NCI) is located in Dublin’s International Financial Services Centre, a hotspot for banking and tech industries. The college is known for its strong industry ties and practical courses in business, computing, and data analytics.

Tuition Fees:

• Undergraduate: €10,000–€11,000 per year (Approx. ₹8.9–₹9.8 lakh)
• Postgraduate: €12,000–€15,000 per year (Approx. ₹10.7–₹13.4 lakh)

Popular Courses & Career Prospects:

• Business & Finance – Great for jobs in multinational corporations and financial firms.
• Data Science & Computing – A solid choice for anyone looking to work in AI, cloud computing, or cybersecurity.
• Human Resource Management – Ideal for those who want to work in HR or talent management.

Because of its location, NCI graduates have excellent job opportunities, especially in finance and tech sectors.

Admission Requirements:

• For undergraduate courses: Completion of 12th grade (or equivalent).
• For postgraduate courses: A relevant bachelor’s degree.
• English requirement: IELTS 6.0 or equivalent.
• Application deadline: Deadlines vary—check their official site.

4. Maynooth University

Maynooth University is located just outside Dublin and is one of the fastest-growing universities in Ireland. With over 14,000 students from more than 90 countries, it’s a great place for international students looking for a diverse and welcoming campus. The university is well-known for its strong research programs and focus on student support.

Tuition Fees

• Undergraduate: €7,500–€18,000 per year (Approx. ₹6.7–₹16.1 lakh)
• Postgraduate: €7,500–€18,000 per year (Approx. ₹6.7–₹16.1 lakh)

The exact fee depends on your chosen program. Science and engineering courses tend to be on the higher end.

Popular Courses & Career Prospects

Maynooth offers courses in:

• Science & Technology – Ideal for students aiming for careers in research, data analytics, and engineering.
• Business & Management – A great option for future entrepreneurs, marketers, and finance professionals.
• Social Sciences & Humanities – Prepares students for careers in public service, education, and media.

Graduates from Maynooth have gone on to work in top companies across Europe.

Admission Requirements

• For undergraduate courses: High school completion with a minimum of 75% in relevant subjects.
• For postgraduate courses: A bachelor’s degree with at least 60% in a related field.
• English requirement: IELTS 6.5 or equivalent.
• Application deadline: Varies by course, so check the university’s website.

5. Munster Technological University (MTU)

MTU was established in 2021 and has multiple campuses across the South and Southwest of Ireland. It’s known for its strong focus on practical skills and industry collaboration, making it an excellent choice for students looking to gain hands-on experience before they graduate.

Tuition Fees

• Undergraduate: €13,500 per year (Approx. ₹12.1 lakh)
• Postgraduate: €15,000 per year (Approx. ₹13.4 lakh)

MTU offers relatively affordable programs compared to other Irish universities.

Popular Courses & Career Prospects

MTU specializes in:

• Engineering & Technology – Prepares students for careers in automation, AI, and industrial design.
• Business & Management – Great for those looking to work in finance, HR, and international business.
• Health & Science – Offers pathways into medical technology, pharmaceuticals, and research.

With a focus on real-world learning, students often land internships and job placements during their studies.

Admission Requirements

• For undergraduate courses: Completion of high school with relevant subjects.
• For postgraduate courses: A bachelor’s degree in a related field.
• English requirement: IELTS 6.0 or equivalent.
• Application deadline: Check the MTU website for specific dates.

6. Technological University Dublin (TU Dublin)

TU Dublin is Ireland’s first technological university, with campuses across the city. It offers many practical, career-focused programs that help students get job-ready. With strong industry partnerships, TU Dublin is a great choice for students looking for internships and networking opportunities.

Tuition Fees

• Undergraduate: €12,000 per year (Approx. ₹10.7 lakh)
• Postgraduate: €12,000 per year (Approx. ₹10.7 lakh)

Affordable and offers great value for money, especially for technical courses.

Popular Courses & Career Prospects

TU Dublin offers programs in:

• Engineering & IT – Focuses on robotics, software development, and cybersecurity.
• Business & Finance – Prepares students for careers in corporate management, banking, and consulting.
• Hospitality & Tourism – A great option for students interested in travel and hotel management.

Many graduates go on to work in Dublin’s booming tech, finance, and hospitality industries.

Admission Requirements

• For undergraduate courses: High school completion with good grades.
• For postgraduate courses: A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.
• English requirement: IELTS 6.0 or equivalent.
• Application deadline: Varies by course—check the TU Dublin website for details.

7. Atlantic Technological University (ATU)

ATU is a multi-campus university spread across the west and northwest of Ireland. It was formed in 2022 after the merger of several institutes of technology. The university offers a mix of technical and academic programs, focusing on hands-on learning and industry collaborations. ATU is known for its welcoming environment, especially for international students.

Tuition Fees

• Undergraduate: €12,000 per year (Approx. ₹10.7 lakh)
• Postgraduate: €14,000 per year (Approx. ₹12.5 lakh)

ATU also offers scholarships for international students, ranging from €2,000 to €3,000, depending on your home country’s GDP. This can help lower costs significantly.

Popular Courses & Career Prospects

ATU offers programs in:

• Engineering – Mechanical, civil, and electronic engineering courses that open doors to jobs in industries like construction, automation, and renewable energy.
• Business & Management – Covers areas like marketing, finance, and entrepreneurship, leading to career opportunities in multinational companies and startups.
• Health Sciences & Nursing – Prepares students for roles in hospitals, healthcare management, and research institutions.

The university has strong industry ties, making it easier for graduates to find internships and jobs after completing their degrees.

Admission Requirements

• For undergraduate courses: High school completion with at least 75% marks in relevant subjects.
• For postgraduate courses: A bachelor’s degree in a related field.
• English requirement: IELTS 6.0 or equivalent.
• Application deadline: Check the ATU website for specific dates, as they vary by course.

8. Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT)

DkIT is located in Dundalk, a town between Dublin and Belfast. It’s known for its affordable tuition fees, practical courses, and strong industry connections. With smaller class sizes, students get more one-on-one interaction with professors. The institute focuses on applied learning, which means a lot of real-world projects and internships.

Tuition Fees

• Undergraduate: €10,950 per year (Approx. ₹9.8 lakh)
• Postgraduate: €12,000 per year (Approx. ₹10.7 lakh)

This makes DkIT one of the cheapest higher education institutions in Ireland for international students.

Popular Courses & Career Prospects

DkIT specializes in:

• Computing & IT – Programs in software development, AI, and cybersecurity, leading to careers in tech firms and IT consulting.
• Creative Media & Film Production – Ideal for students interested in graphic design, animation, and film. Many alumni work in Ireland’s media industry.
• Hospitality & Tourism Management – A strong option if you're interested in working in hotels, event management, or travel agencies.

DkIT has partnerships with global companies, helping students secure internships and full-time roles after graduation.

Admission Requirements

• For undergraduate courses: High school completion with at least 70% marks in relevant subjects.
• For postgraduate courses: A bachelor’s degree in a related subject with minimum 60%.
• English requirement: IELTS 6.0 or equivalent.
• Application deadline: Varies—check the DkIT website for the latest updates.

9. South East Technological University (SETU)

SETU is a dynamic institution with campuses in Waterford, Carlow, and Wexford. It offers a wide range of programs, emphasizing practical learning and industry connections. SETU is known for its supportive environment, making it a great choice for international students.

Tuition Fees

• Undergraduate: €13,500–€14,500 per year (Approx. ₹12.1–₹13 lakh)
• Postgraduate: €14,000–€15,000 per year (Approx. ₹12.5–₹13.4 lakh)

SETU also offers entry awards and scholarships ranging from €1,000 to €4,000, which can help reduce the overall cost.

Popular Courses & Career Prospects

SETU offers programs in:

• Engineering: Mechanical, civil, and electronic engineering courses that prepare students for roles in various industries.
• Business: Courses in management, marketing, and finance, leading to opportunities in corporate and entrepreneurial sectors.
• Health Sciences: Programs in nursing and healthcare management, with prospects in hospitals and healthcare organizations.

Graduates from SETU often find employment in Ireland's growing industries, thanks to the university's strong ties with local businesses.

Admission Requirements

• For undergraduate courses: Completion of high school with good grades in subjects like Mathematics and a minimum average grade of 60% across at least five other subjects.
• For postgraduate courses: A relevant bachelor's degree with a good academic record.
• English requirement: IELTS score of 6.0 or equivalent.
• Application deadline: Varies by program; it's best to check SETU's official website for specific dates.

10. University of Limerick (UL)

Located along the scenic River Shannon, UL is renowned for its vibrant campus life and strong emphasis on research and innovation. With a diverse student body, UL offers a welcoming environment for international students.

Tuition Fees

• Undergraduate: €12,000–€17,000 per year (Approx. ₹10.7–₹15.2 lakh)
• Postgraduate: €12,000–€17,000 per year (Approx. ₹10.7–₹15.2 lakh)

The exact fee depends on the chosen program.

Popular Courses & Career Prospects

UL offers programs in:

• Engineering: Mechanical, civil, and electronic engineering courses that prepare students for roles in various industries.
• Business: Courses in management, marketing, and finance, leading to opportunities in corporate and entrepreneurial sectors.
• Health Sciences: Programs in nursing and healthcare management, with prospects in hospitals and healthcare organizations.

UL boasts a high graduate employment rate, with many students securing jobs within six months of graduation.

Admission Requirements

• For undergraduate courses: Completion of high school with a strong academic record.
• For postgraduate courses: A four-year bachelor's degree from a recognized institution with high grades, typically a minimum CGPA of 3.00/4.00 or above.
• English requirement: IELTS score of 6.5 or equivalent.
• Application deadline: Deadlines vary by program; it's advisable to consult UL's official website for the most up-to-date information.

Cost of Studying in Ireland: Tuition Fees & Living Expenses 

If you're planning to study in Ireland, it's important to understand both tuition fees and living costs.

While tuition fees in Ireland are generally lower than in the US or UK, they still vary based on the university, course, and level of study. 

The cheap universities in Ireland, like Public universities offer more affordable options, while private institutions tend to charge higher tuition fees.

Tuition Fees for Undergraduate & Master’s Programs

Things to Know About Tuition Fees in Ireland:

• Public universities have lower tuition fees compared to private institutions.
• Business, Medicine, and Engineering programs usually have higher costs.
• Many scholarships are available for international students to reduce tuition expenses.
• Additional costs include registration fees, student union fees, and exam fees.

Average Tuition Fees at Top Irish Universities

University Name	Undergraduate Fees (Per Year)	Postgraduate Fees (Per Year)
Trinity College Dublin	€18,000 – €25,000 (₹16 – ₹22 lakh)	€20,000 – €30,000 (₹18 – ₹26 lakh)
University College Dublin (UCD)	€15,000 – €23,000 (₹13 – ₹20 lakh)	€18,000 – €28,000 (₹16 – ₹24 lakh)
National University of Ireland, Galway	€14,000 – €22,000 (₹12 – ₹19 lakh)	€16,000 – €26,000 (₹14 – ₹23 lakh)
Dublin City University	€13,000 – €21,000 (₹11 – ₹18 lakh)	€15,000 – €25,000 (₹13 – ₹22 lakh)
University of Limerick	€12,000 – €20,000 (₹10 – ₹17 lakh)	€14,000 – €24,000 (₹12 – ₹21 lakh)

Cost of Living in Ireland for International Students

Apart from tuition fees, students must also consider their living expenses. Costs will vary depending on the city, lifestyle, and accommodation choice. Dublin, being the capital, is the most expensive, while Galway, Limerick, and Cork offer more affordable options.

Key Factors Affecting Living Costs:

• Accommodation – On-campus housing is more expensive than shared apartments.
• Food & Groceries – Cooking at home is cheaper than eating out.
• Public Transport – Student discounts are available on travel passes.
• Health Insurance – Required for all international students.

Average Monthly Living Expenses in Ireland

Expense Category	Cost (EUR)	Considerations
Accommodation (Shared Apartment)	€500 – €1,200 (₹45,000 – ₹1 lakh)	Costs vary by city
Food & Groceries	€250 – €400 (₹22,000 – ₹35,000)	Cooking at home reduces costs
Public Transport	€50 – €100 (₹4,500 – ₹9,000)	Student Leap Card offers discounts
Health Insurance	€50 – €150 (₹4,500 – ₹13,500)	Mandatory for all students
Utilities (Electricity, Internet, etc.)	€100 – €200 (₹9,000 – ₹18,000)	Included in some rentals
Entertainment & Miscellaneous	€100 – €300 (₹9,000 – ₹27,000)	Depends on lifestyle

Dublin is the most expensive city for students, while cities like Limerick and Galway are more cheap universities in Ireland.

How to Reduce Study Costs in Ireland

• Apply for scholarships – Universities offer merit-based and need-based scholarships.
• Choose an affordable city – Living in smaller cities like Limerick or Galway reduces rent and expenses.
• Work part-time – Students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and 40 hours during holidays to cover expenses.
• Use student discounts – Many shops, restaurants, and public transport services offer discounts.
• Find shared housing – Sharing an apartment with roommates helps reduce rent and utility bills.

Read: Education System in Ireland

Scholarships for International Students in Ireland

Scholarships are available through the Irish government, universities, and private organizations. Some cover full tuition and living costs, while others provide partial funding.

Types of Scholarships Available

• Government-Funded Scholarships – Offered by the Irish government to support international students.

• University-Specific Scholarships – Provided by top Irish universities to attract talented students.
• Private & External Scholarships – Sponsored by organizations that promote global education.
• Merit-Based Scholarships – Awarded based on academic excellence and achievements.
• Need-Based Financial Aid – Designed to assist students who require financial support.

Government-Funded Scholarships in Ireland

These scholarships help cover tuition fees, living expenses, and sometimes travel costs.

• Government of Ireland International Education Scholarship
  Covers full tuition fees and provides a €10,000 (₹9 lakh) stipend.
  Open to students applying for master’s and PhD programs.
  Selection is based on academic performance and leadership skills.
• Irish Research Council Scholarships
  Supports PhD and research-based master’s students.
  Includes full tuition coverage, research grants, and a monthly stipend.
  Focuses on STEM, humanities, and social sciences research.
• Fulbright Ireland Scholarships
  Designed for students pursuing studies in Ireland through cultural exchange programs.
  Covers tuition fees and offers a monthly stipend.
  Encourages students in fields like technology, arts, and business.

University-Specific Scholarships for International Students

Many universities in Ireland offer scholarships to help international students reduce tuition costs.

University	Scholarship Name	Coverage
Trinity College Dublin	Global Excellence Scholarships	Partial tuition fee waivers (€5,000 – €10,000)
University College Dublin (UCD)	UCD Global Scholarships	Up to 50% tuition coverage
National University of Ireland, Galway	Hardiman PhD Scholarships	Full tuition + stipend
Dublin City University (DCU)	DCU International Merit Scholarships	€2,000 – €5,000 (₹1.8 – ₹4.5 lakh) reduction on tuition fees
University of Limerick (UL)	UL International Education Scholarships	Partial tuition fee waivers

Private & External Scholarships for Studying in Ireland

Several private organizations offer financial aid to international students in Ireland.

• The Ireland-India Council Scholarships
  Supports Indian students in Irish universities.
  Covers part of tuition and living expenses.
• Education in Ireland Scholarships
  Provides funding to international students pursuing higher education in Ireland.
  Aims to promote Ireland as a top study destination.
• Rotary International Scholarships
  Available for students focused on community service and leadership.
  Includes tuition coverage and living allowances.

How to Apply for Scholarships in Ireland?

• Applications open months before the academic year begins.
• Each scholarship has specific requirements, including academic scores.
• A well-written Statement of Purpose (SOP) and strong Letters of Recommendation (LORs) can make a difference.
• More applications increase your chances.
• Some scholarships require IELTS or TOEFL scores.

Work While Studying in Ireland: Part-Time Job Opportunities

Studying in Ireland and wondering if you can work part-time? Working in a café, tutoring, or freelancing online - there are plenty of options. But before you start job hunting, it’s important to know the rules, earnings, and best places to find work.

Who Can Work While Studying in Ireland?

Eligibility – International students on a valid Stamp 2 visa can work part-time.

Work Hour Limits –

• Up to 20 hours per week during term time.
• Up to 40 hours per week during holidays (June, July, August, and December 15 – January 15).

No Work Permit Needed – Students don’t need a separate work visa but must be enrolled in a full-time course recognized by the Irish government.

Popular Part-Time Jobs for Students in Ireland

Not sure what kind of job to look for? Here are some popular choices:

On-Campus Jobs

• Library Assistant
• Research or Teaching Assistant
• Student Ambassador
• Campus Café or Retail Staff

Off-Campus Jobs

• Retail Store Assistant (Supermarkets, Clothing Stores)
• Hospitality Staff (Waiter, Barista, Fast Food Crew)
• Customer Service Representative
• Delivery Rider (Uber Eats, Just Eat)
• Administrative Assistant

Online & Freelance Work

• Private Tutor (Math, English, Coding)
• Freelance Writing or Graphic Design
• Social Media Management
• Virtual Assistant

How Much Can You Earn?

Minimum Wage in Ireland:

• The minimum hourly wage for students is €12.70 per hour (₹1,140) as of 2024.
• Some jobs, like tutoring or tech-related freelance work, may offer €15–€20 per hour (₹1,350–₹1,800) or more.

Average Weekly Earnings for Students:

• Part-time (20 hours/week) → €250–€400 (₹22,500–₹36,000) per week
• Full-time during holidays (40 hours/week) → €500–€800 (₹45,000–₹72,000) per week

Where to Find Part-Time Jobs in Ireland?

• Many universities have job boards for on-campus positions.
• Websites like Indeed.ie, Jobs.ie, and LinkedIn post part-time openings.
• Local cafés, restaurants, and retail stores often hire students.
• Connect with seniors and fellow students for job leads.

Benefits of Part-Time Jobs for Students

• Earn While Studying – Helps manage daily expenses.
• Gain Work Experience – Builds a strong resume for future job applications.
• Improve Communication Skills – Especially useful in customer service roles.
• Expand Your Network – Helps in securing better job opportunities post-graduation.

How Can Students Reduce Costs in Ireland While Studying?

Studying in Ireland can be affordable with smart budgeting. Here’s how you can cut costs and manage expenses effectively.

1. Choose Budget-Friendly Housing

• Stay in university dorms or shared apartments to save on rent.
• Look for accommodation outside city centres for lower prices.
• Use platforms like Daft.ie or Rent.ie to find affordable options.

Estimated Savings: €200–€500/month (₹18,000–₹45,000)

2. Save on Food & Groceries

• Cook at home instead of eating out—saves €150–€250 (₹13,500–₹22,500) per month.
• Shop at Lidl, Aldi, and Tesco for cheaper groceries.
• Use student discount cards for food and essentials.

Estimated Savings: €150–€250/month (₹13,500–₹22,500)

3. Use Student Transport Discounts

• Get a Student Leap Card for discounts on buses, trains, and trams.
• Walk or cycle for short distances to cut travel costs.
• Book intercity train/bus tickets early for lower prices.

Estimated Savings: €50–€100/month (₹4,500–₹9,000)

4. Work Part-Time

• International students can work 20 hours/week during semesters and 40 hours/week on holidays.
• Earn €12.70/hour (₹1,140)—helps cover rent and daily expenses.
• Check university job boards for on-campus work.

5. Save on Study Materials

• Borrow books from university libraries instead of buying.
• Find free online study resources on Coursera and Khan Academy.
• Buy second-hand books from campus stores or online.

Estimated Savings: €200–€500 per semester (₹18,000–₹45,000)

6. Cut Unnecessary Costs

• Use student mobile plans for cheaper calls and data.
• Take advantage of free student events and cultural activities.
• Always ask for student discounts in shops, restaurants, and cinemas.

How upGrad Abroad Supports Your Study Abroad Journey

upGrad Abroad offers a way to cut costs. You can start your MS in India and finish it in Ireland.

Programs You Can Start in India & Finish in Ireland

• MSc in Data Analytics – Dundalk Institute of Technology
• Master of Business Administration (MBA) – University College Dublin
• MSc in International Business Management – Griffith College Ireland
• Postgraduate Diploma in International Business Management – Griffith College Ireland
• MBS in Entrepreneurship and Marketing – Dundalk Institute of Technology

Ready to Start?

Explore cheap universities in Ireland with upGrad’s 1:1 expert guidance. Get a recognized Irish degree while saving on tuition and living costs.