Cost of Study in Ireland 2026
Learn everything you need to know about Studying Cost in Ireland and get end-to-end expert guidance from us.
Planning to study in Ireland is an exciting step, but understanding the financial commitment and the cost of study in Ireland is crucial for a successful journey. With the Irish government actively encouraging global talent through various scholarships like the prestigious Government of Ireland International Education Scholarship, it's clear that international students are highly valued.
The cost of studying in Ireland depends on the course discipline. Medical and technical courses typically fall at the higher end of the fee range, while general arts and business courses are usually lower.
- Undergraduate (UG): €9,850 – €28,000+ per year (Medicine up to €55,000)
- Postgraduate (PG): €10,000 – €35,000 per year
This article breaks down the total cost to study in Ireland, covering everything from university tuition fees in Ireland to expenses on the cost of living in cities like Dublin, Cork, and Galway. Our goal is to provide you with clear, practical information to help you budget effectively and plan your finances with confidence.
University Application Fees in Ireland 2026:
Your journey to studying in Ireland begins with the application process. One of the first financial steps is paying a small, non-refundable application fee for each university you apply to. To help you budget for these initial expenses, we have compiled the verified 2026 application fees for Ireland's leading universities, listed in order of their international ranking.
| University | Application Fee |
|---|---|
| Trinity College Dublin (TCD) | €60 |
| University College Dublin (UCD) | €60 |
| University College Cork (UCC) | €50 |
| University of Galway | €35 |
| Dublin City University (DCU) | €50 |
| Maynooth University | €50 |
Note – For students looking to study in Ireland, you can get in touch with our counsellors for the latest application fee details and the admission process of your desired university to avoid hassle.
Tuition Fees in Irish Universities for International Students
The different levels and fields of study charge different tuition fees for international students in Irish universities. The average tuition fee for undergraduate studies lies between €15,000 and €23,000 per year, while for postgraduate studies, it ranges from €16,000 to €31,000 per annum.
STEM – Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and other fields in demand, such as Business and Health Sciences, usually have a higher cost of study. For instance, undergraduate and graduate programmes in Engineering will run as high as €26,000 to €30,000 per annum, respectively.
You should note that this representation of a premium-level specialised programme is considered an investment in quality education for international students in Ireland, as these in-demand courses provide huge benefits for a successful career after graduation.
To give you a clearer picture, tuition fees in Ireland can vary significantly based on the university and the course you choose. Humanities and arts courses are generally less expensive than subjects in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). Here is a sample breakdown of estimated annual tuition fees for non-EU international students at some of Ireland's leading institutions:
| University | Undergraduate (Arts/Humanities) | Undergraduate (STEM) | Postgraduate (Masters) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trinity College Dublin | €21,000 - €23,000 | €26,000 - €29,000 | €22,000 - €30,000 |
| University College Dublin | €19,000 - €22,000 | €25,000 - €28,000 | €20,000 - €29,000 |
| University of Galway | €17,000 - €19,000 | €20,000 - €25,000 | €18,000 - €26,000 |
| University College Cork | €16,500 - €18,500 | €19,000 - €24,000 | €17,000 - €25,000 |
| Dublin City University (DCU) | €15,000 - €17,000 | €16,000 - €19,000 | €17,000 - €20,000 |
| Maynooth University | €15,000 - €16,500 | €16,500 - €18,000 | €16,000 - €19,000 |
Note: Always check the official university website for the most accurate and up-to-date fee structures for your specific course.
Scholarships in Ireland for International Students
Despite the high study costs in Ireland, numerous scholarships are available for study in Ireland thanks to the government, charitable organisations, and Irish educational institutions. These effectively lower the price of attending school in the country.
However, the organisations that give these scholarships determine the precise requirements and eligibility for awarding them. You can get information about scholarships by contacting the companies or universities that are giving them out.
The following are just a few of the prominent international scholarships available in Ireland:
- Government of Ireland Scholarships
- DIT Centenary Scholarship Programme
- Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology scholarships
- National College of Ireland Scholarships
- NUI Galway International Student Scholarships
- DCU International Student Scholarships
While the cost to study in Ireland requires careful planning, it is a worthwhile investment in your future. By understanding the breakdown of tuition fees, you can create a realistic budget. Remember to explore scholarships in Ireland for international students, as they can help you ease up on your financial strain. With the right preparation, your dream of studying in the Emerald Isle is well within reach. Don't let financial planning overwhelm you. The next step is to get personalised guidance based on your specific course and university choices.
Ready to start your journey? Contact an AECC counsellor today for a free consultation and a detailed financial plan for your studies in Ireland.