Studying in Ireland: universities and English courses

Along with Malta, the only major English-speaking country in the European Union, Ireland hosts the European headquarters of many technology and pharmaceutical companies. It is a top destination for an English-taught degree or for learning English over a long period. Here is how to study in Ireland from Tunisia.

Why Ireland?

• Studies in English within the European Union.

• Recognised universities: Trinity College Dublin, University College Dublin, University College Cork, University of Galway, Dublin City University, University of Limerick, Maynooth…

• A professional ecosystem: technology, pharmaceuticals, finance, data.

• Part-time work permitted during studies.

• A post-study programme to stay and look for a job after your studies.

Two types of projects

A university degree

• Bachelor's (undergraduate, often 3 to 4 years);

• Master's (postgraduate, often 1 year);

• Doctorate.

Non-EU students generally apply directly to the universities (the national CAO system mainly concerns European students). Usual documents: transcripts, English test (often IELTS 6.0 to 6.5), motivation letter, references.

For a bachelor's, the Tunisian bac may be accepted with good grades by some universities; others require a foundation year. For a master's, the bachelor's degree is assessed case by case.

Long-term English courses

Language schools offering programmes recognised by the Irish authorities allow non-European students to take English courses over several months, with a student residence permit. This is an excellent option to reach the level required before a master's, or for an international experience.

The student visa

Tunisians need a long-stay study visa. Main documents:

• admission letter from a recognised institution or programme;

• proof of payment of tuition fees;

• proof of funds to live on (a minimum amount set by the authorities);

• health insurance;

• documents on your background and English level;

• a letter explaining your project.

On arrival, you register with the immigration services to obtain your residence permit.

Working during your studies

Students enrolled in a recognised programme can work part-time during term and full-time during scheduled holidays, within the limits set by the regulations. Dublin offers many student jobs (hospitality, retail, services).

After graduation

Graduates of an Irish bachelor's, master's or doctorate may, under certain conditions, benefit from a post-study programme allowing them to stay in Ireland to look for a job or work for a limited period (longer for master's and doctoral graduates).

How much does Ireland cost?

• Tuition fees for non-EU students: roughly €10,000 to €25,000 per year depending on the programme, more for medicine.

• English courses: price depending on the duration and the school.

• Daily life: this is the biggest expense. Generally allow €1,100 to €1,600 per month in Dublin, a little less in Cork, Galway or Limerick.

Housing is expensive and scarce in Dublin: start looking early and consider the other university cities.

Ireland or the United Kingdom?

• Ireland: EU, part-time work, post-study programme, high cost of living in Dublin.

• United Kingdom: more universities and programmes, one-year master's, often high fees. See UCAS: applying to a British university.

• Malta: closer and more affordable for learning English. See Studying in Malta.

Typical timeline for a September intake

1. Autumn: choice of universities and programmes, registration for the IELTS.

2. Winter – spring: direct applications (many universities review applications on a rolling basis; popular programmes fill up quickly).

3. Spring: offer of admission, payment of the required deposit or fees.

4. Early summer: study visa application with proof of funds and insurance.

5. Summer: housing search, departure, then registration with immigration.

For a long-term English course, the timeline is more flexible: schools have intakes all year round, but the visa takes several weeks.

English courses in Ireland: how to choose your school?

• Check that the programme is on the official list of recognised programmes for non-European students: this is essential for the residence permit and the right to work.

• Compare the number of class hours per week and the class size.

• Look at the exam preparation offered (IELTS, Cambridge).

• Find out about the mix of nationalities.

• Check the accommodation options (host family, residence) and their distance from the school.

University cities

• Dublin: the largest offer of universities, language schools and jobs, but housing costs are very high.

• Cork: the second city, student atmosphere, slightly lower costs.

• Galway: a young, cultural city on the west coast.

• Limerick: a modern university and pleasant campus, more affordable rents.

• Maynooth: close to Dublin, campus atmosphere.

Documents to prepare

• passport valid for the entire stay;

• admission letter and proof of payment of fees;

• bank statements showing the available funds, over several months;

• health insurance;

• translated transcripts and diplomas;

• English certificate;

• a letter explaining your background and your project, including any gap years.

The Irish authorities carefully examine the coherence of the project and the source of funds: a clear, well-documented file greatly reduces the risk of refusal.

Our support

Worldwide Studies helps you choose between university and English courses, apply, prepare for the IELTS and the visa file, and plan your housing search in advance. See also IELTS in Tunisia.

👉 Fees and requirements change: talk to an advisor for an Ireland plan tailored to your budget.