10 Cheap Universities in Ireland for International Students

Ireland is an emerging study destination that has top universities, cheap cost of education, English as the primary language and lots of other perks for students. To study here, students often remain on the lookout for the cheapest universities in Ireland for international students. 

Affordable education in Ireland for international students is found mostly in Institutes of Technology and Technical Universities - with tuition fees starting from €10,000 and going to up to €13,500 per year for various programs. The Institutes of Technology often have lower fees for undergraduate and postgraduate courses compared to traditional universities. Indian students can also avail of the study abroad scholarships to curb the relatively high prices of education compared to those in India. 

Some of the top 10 cheapest universities in Ireland for international students are the Atlantic Technological University (ATU), Munster Technological University (MTU) and Technological University Dublin (TU Dublin). Students also need to note that many of these cheap universities in Ireland are located outside of Dublin, which is the costliest city in the country to live in, so they will have to arrange a relatively lower living cost. Read this article to learn about the 10 cheap universities in Ireland for international students.

Top 10 Cheapest Universities in Ireland for International Students

Ireland is the only English-speaking European country, has a welcoming environment and is a base for top global companies. This is why most students from around the world are now looking to study in Ireland to manifest their dreams. The degrees earned from Irish universities are accepted worldwide and students can lead a rewarding life thereafter. The list of cheap universities in Ireland for international students is given below. 

1. Dublin Business School

Dublin Business School is Ireland's largest private third-level institution. It is accredited by Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) and specialises in career-focused undergraduate and postgraduate degrees.

2. National College of Ireland

Located in Dublin's financial district, the National College of Ireland excels in business, computing and HR. It holds a 5-star QS rating for employability and internationalisation.

3. Technological University Dublin

Technological University Dublin is Ireland’s first technological university that was formed on Jan 1, 2019, by the merger of three major institutes in the Dublin area, namely - Dublin Institute of Technology (DIT), Institute of Technology, Blanchardstown (ITB) and Institute of Technology, Tallaght (ITT). It is the third-largest university in Ireland and focuses on practical, industry-aligned STEM and professional courses.

4. Munster Technological University 

Munster Technological University was formed in January 2021 by the merger of Cork Institute of Technology and IT Tralee. The university provides industry-focused courses with strong links to major corporations in the southwest.

5. Technological University of the Shannon

The Technological University of the Shannon was formed in October 2021 by the merger of Limerick Institute of Technology and Athlone Institute of Technology. The university spans six campuses and focuses on regional economic and industry needs.

6. Griffith College Dublin

Established in 1974, Griffith College Dublin is Ireland’s largest independent third-level institution. Its main seven-acre campus is located on the historic South Circular Road in Dublin 8 - featuring 200-year-old architecture alongside modern learning facilities. Griffith College Dublin is highly regarded for its School of Professional Accountancy, which has consistently achieved top-world rankings in ACCA examinations.

7. Maynooth University

Maynooth University is one of Ireland's youngest universities. The university balances modern research with long-standing academic traditions in arts & sciences and has over 15,000 students from more than 100 countries.

8. University College Cork

The University College Cork is a world-leading research institute and the first to receive the International Green Flag for the environment. It is highly regarded for food science, medicine and its diverse multicultural student body.

9. University of Limerick

The University of Limerick is known for its autonomous campus and innovation. It is particularly strong in sports science and engineering with extensive professional placement (co-op) opportunities.

10. University of Galway

The University of Galway is a prestigious research-led university in the west of Ireland. It is one of the country's most ancient institutions - hosting over 3,000 international students from 115+ countries.

Average Fees at the Cheap Universities in Ireland for International Students

Below we have tabulated the average fees at the cheapest universities in Ireland for international students. 

How can I get into the Cheapest Universities in Ireland?

To get into the cheapest universities in Ireland, target Institutes of Technology (IoT) and Technological Universities (TUs) like SETU, ATU or MTU. Apply directly via university websites or CAO, maintain strong academics, secure an IELTS score of 6.0–6.5+, and apply early to maximise scholarship chances.

Admission Requirements at the Cheap Universities in Ireland for International Students

The admission requirements for getting into the affordable Irish universities for international students include - 

1. Having equivalent high school results for undergraduates or a relevant bachelor’s degree for postgraduates

2. Proof of English proficiency via IELTS, TOEFL or PTE

3. A unique statement of purpose

4. Academic transcripts

10 Cheap Universities in Ireland for International Students FAQs