Gyanberry > Study in Ireland > cost of living in ireland for international students

Cost of Living in Ireland for International Students

ACAlpina ChariFeb 2, 2023

Cost of Living in Ireland for International Students

For students who are planning to live, study, or work abroad, the cost of living is an important factor to take into consideration. Several aspects, such as geographical location, currency exchange rates, and a person’s lifestyle, can have a significant impact on the costs of living abroad. Ireland, situated in western Europe offers an excellent education system, and a welcoming and diverse environment, with a comparatively higher cost of living (approx. 800-1,300 EUR/month), making it a great place for students to study and live. According to the Irish Universities Association, over 32,000 international students are currently enrolled in courses in Ireland’s wide range of educational programs. This article aims to provide extensive information regarding the cost of living in Ireland for international students.

Overview: Cost of Living in Ireland for International Students

Particulars  Annual Cost of Living in EUR 
Accommodation  5,000-12,000 
Food  1,200-4,800 
Transportation  800-1,900
Utilities  1,300-2,700
Recreation  700-3,500

Cost of Living in Ireland vs Other European Study Destinations

The cost of living in Ireland varies depending on a number of determinants for international students. Some of the typical ones include your choice of city to stay in, your accommodation preferences, and means to travel and commute. The idea of expenses in a foreign country might make you feel overwhelmed, but prior knowledge of expenses and costs will help you equip yourself better. Along with prior knowledge, setting up a budget and managing it will also help a great deal. 

 Although there are some affordable universities in Ireland, it is moderately expensive in terms of living expenses. According to the Irish Independent, the cost of living in Ireland is higher than in most European countries.

This table provides expense estimates according to a few popular European study destinations-

Study Destination QS Ranking for Best Student Cities 2023 Estimated Living Expenses (per month) Average Tuition Fee

(annually)

Dublin, Ireland 37 1,200-1,800 EUR  12,600-18,000 EUR
London, UK 1 1,300-1,400 EUR  22,000 EUR
Munich, Germany 2 900 EUR  300-10,236 EUR
Czech Republic, Prague  39 338- 724 EUR 41-21,000 EUR

Student Living Expenses in Different Irish Cities

Depending on the Irish city, the cost of living for international students can differ. Here are some rough estimates for monthly living costs in various well-known Irish cities for foreign students-

Irish City Cost of Accommodation (University Accommodation) Food Travel Recreation Utilities
Dublin 600-1,000 EUR

 

280-400 EUR 120-160 EUR  100-120 EUR  226.77 EUR 
Cork 600-680 EUR  250-350 EUR 65-85 EUR  85-100 EUR  175.59 EUR 
Limerick 500-600 EUR  250-350 EUR  65-85 EUR 85-100 EUR  161.76 EUR 
Belfast 250-300 EUR 100-150 EUR 70-90 EUR 60-100 EUR  115 EUR 
Galway 640-680 EUR 250-350 EUR 65-85 EUR 100-300 EUR 174.61 EUR

Overall, the annual cost of living in Ireland comes down to 10,000-16,000 EUR per year (if budgeted properly).

Cost of Living in Ireland: University Accommodation vs Private Accommodation

The cost of living in Ireland can vary depending on whether you choose to live in university accommodation or private accommodation.

University accommodation is generally less expensive than private accommodation. The cost of university accommodation in Ireland can range from around 10,000 to 20,000 EUR per academic year, depending on the location and type of accommodation. 

  • On-Campus Accommodation

On-campus housing is often high in demand and can be costly. It is usually set up as four to eight-student flats with individual bedrooms and shared living, dining, and bathroom spaces. Typically, rent is due at the beginning of each semester rather than on a monthly basis. A security deposit is required in advance, which will be returned after the completion of your stay in Ireland.

  • Private Accommodation

Private housing is often more expensive than university accommodations, with rent typically ranging from 800 to 1,500 EUR per month, depending on the area and type of housing. The entire cost of living in private housing can also be increased by additional costs such as utilities, internet, and food.

How to Reduce Your Living Costs in Ireland as a Student

Given below are some key basic key pointers as well as some specifications as to how you can reduce your living cost in Ireland as an international student-

  • Search for affordable accommodation – It can be pocket-friendly to share an apartment with others. Even shared university dorms are inexpensive and can save up a lot of money. 
  • Cook at home: It might be expensive to eat out, so try to prepare meals as often as you can. University canteens also offer food at lower prices. 
  • Utilize public transportation- Purchasing a monthly pass will help you save money over time.
  • Utilize student discounts-  Many shops and companies give students discounts, so be sure to inquire and keep your student ID on you and maximize its benefits.
  • Take advantage of the student loan and grant system offered by the Irish government. Consult your college for further information.
  • Look for part-time employment- You can supplement your income by working a part-time job to pay your bills.

You may use your International Student Identity Card (ISIC) in more locations and get access to a list of businesses that provide student discounts both in Ireland and abroad if you purchase one.

For students enrolled in an Irish college or university, the Student Leap card provides discounted fares and other discounts.

Student travelers can choose from a variety of travel choices offered by USIT. USIT offers affordable flexible fares, custom insurance plans, and low-cost housing.

Claiming tax back – Students from outside the EU and the EEA may be eligible for tax-free shopping on some items brought home, particularly those bought at department stores, as long as they were purchased during the last two months of their stay. Before leaving Ireland, refunds can be received at the airport through the cashback system. You must acquire a form stamped by a participating business at the time of purchase in order to participate in the program. Then, until the day of your departure, keep this in a secure place.

Conclusion

Ireland provides ample opportunities for students pursuing their education abroad. While in the course of selection, one must keep in mind international rankings, on-campus facilities, quality of education as well as expenditure. This article will help you navigate around the idea of the cost of living in Ireland for international students. If you are interested in studying in Ireland, we at Gyanberry can assist with everything admission related and beyond with the utmost attention. With the help of our extensive guidance, you can select the university best suited for your interests and ambitions with personalized services as well.

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Frequently Asked Questions

The average cost of living in Ireland for international students is 10,000-16,000 EUR per year.

One of your major costs will most certainly be rent. For a shared room, the cost might be as low as €400 per month or as much as 850 EUR for a private room in a shared apartment. On-campus housing is in high demand and is more expensive than other options. Private student housing complexes have room rates that might exceed 1,000 EUR per month.

You will likely spend between 70 and 100 EUR a week on food, including meals purchased on campus or at less expensive restaurants.

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