United Kingdom (UK) vs Ireland for International Students
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United Kingdom (UK) vs Ireland for International Students

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Priya
Priya Garg
Study Abroad Expert
Updated on Nov 14, 2025 12:12 IST

United Kingdom and Ireland are both popular study abroad destinations for Indian students. It offers high quality education and vibrant cultures. Reputed universities are in both countries. Only a few things create differences. Let us explore them:

United Kingdom (UK) vs Ireland for International Students

UK and Ireland offer some of the top-ranked universities in the world, giving number of chances for growth to international students. The doors to various possibilities and work opportunities open up for students who complete their higher education either in the UK or Ireland. For this reason, students from around the world wish to study in the UK and Ireland. This article draws comparisons between the UK and Ireland as study-abroad destinations.  

Table of contents
  • UK vs Ireland: Best Country for Study
  • Top Universities for Higher Studies
  • UK vs Ireland: Admission Requirements
  • Cost of Studying UG: UK and Ireland
  • Cost of Studying a Postgraduate Programme
  • Student Visa for UK and Ireland
  • Climate Condition
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UK vs Ireland: Best Country for Study

Through this article, we have tried to address this very confusion. In this article, we have provided a very unbiased outlook of the United Kingdom and Ireland to help candidates make the right choice. We have taken into account popular parameters such as popular courses, and job availability, cost of studies as the deciding factors. We are going to compare both countries based on several data items from dozens of different sources. All data are based on the most recent data available to us. 

Parameters United Kingdom (UK) Ireland
Popular Programmes The UK offers a vast array of programs across various fields, with a strong reputation in business, finance, law, engineering, and creative arts. Particularly renowned for programs like MBA, LLB, and design. Read:  Known for its excellence in technology, business, and the sciences. Popular programs include computer science, software development, biosciences, and renewable energy. ReadTop Courses in Ireland
Language of Instruction Both the UK and Ireland use English as the primary language of instruction, eliminating language barriers for Indian students.
University Rankings The UK boasts a significant number of world-renowned universities like Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial College London, and others, consistently ranking among the best globally. Read: Top Universities and Colleges in UK Ireland has several well-respected universities, such as Trinity College Dublin, University College Dublin, and Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, but may not have the same depth of top-ranked institutions as the UK. Read: Top Universities and Colleges in Ireland
Teaching Style Leans towards a more interactive and student-centered approach, encouraging critical thinking, group discussions, and independent learning. Often employs a mix of lectures, seminars, and tutorials, with a focus on clear communication and knowledge acquisition.
Application Process Requires standardized tests like TOEFL, IELTS or PTE for English language proficiency, along with application essays, letters of recommendation, and transcripts. The application process can be competitive, especially for top universities. The application process may be simpler, often involving direct application to the chosen university. Standardized tests may not always be mandatory.
Cost of Studying Tuition fees in the UK can vary significantly depending on the university and courses. Generally, London universities tend to be more expensive. The average tuition fee in Ireland is lower in comparison to the UK, making it a more budget-friendly option.
Cost of Living Living expenses in the UK, especially in major cities like London, can be high. Accommodation costs significantly impact the overall budget. Ireland's cost of living is relatively moderate as compared to major UK cities, with Dublin being the most expensive city in Ireland.
Scholarships & Financial Aid Provides a range of scholarships for Indian students, including university-specific scholarships, merit-based awards, and Chevening Scholarships (funded by the UK government) Offers some scholarship opportunities for international students, but the options may be more limited compared to the UK.
Part-Time Work Options International students with a valid Tier 4 (General) student visa can work part-time in the UK for up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during vacations. International students with a valid Irish Student Visa can work part-time in Ireland (up to 20 hours per week during term and full-time during breaks)
Post-Study Work Permit The Graduate Route visa allows international graduates to work or look for work in the UK for two years after completing a bachelor's degree or three years for a PhD The Irish Third Level Graduate Scheme provides a post-study work visa for up to 24 months for graduates with qualifications in specific high-demand sectors.
Job Market Offers a vast and diverse job market, with opportunities across various industries. London is a global financial center, attracting professionals in banking, finance, and law. Has a thriving tech sector and a growing economy, particularly in areas like pharmaceuticals and technology. The job market may be smaller but can be more accessible for recent graduates with an Irish degree.
Culture The UK offers a multicultural experience with a rich history and tradition. Ireland boasts a strong sense of community, a vibrant pub culture, and a beautiful natural landscape.

Top Universities for Higher Studies

In this section, we have mentioned the top universities in UK and Ireland as per the latest QS World University Rankings. 

Top Universities in UK

Top Universities in Ireland

University of Cambridge

Trinity College Dublin, The University of Dublin

University of Oxford

University College Dublin

Imperial College London

University of Galway

UCL

University College Cork

The University of Edinburgh

Dublin City University

UK vs Ireland: Admission Requirements

In this section, we have talked about the admission requirements for UK and Ireland. 

Heads UK Ireland 
Academics
  • For UG: 13 Years of Pre University Education
  • For PG: Three-year UG Degree 
  • For UG: Minimum score of 60% and above in 12th is required
  • For PG: For admission UG degree is mandatory

English Proficiency Test

TOEFL , IELTS or Duolingo English Test Same like UK
Standardized Test GRE exam and GMAT You can get waiver of these exams

Cost of Studying UG:  UK and Ireland

This section talks about the cost of studying an undergraduate programme in UK vs Ireland. 

Cost of Studying Comparison Between UK and Ireland for UG course

Particulars

Undergraduate courses in the UK

Undergraduate courses in Ireland

Average Tuition Fee

£11,400 - £38,000

€22,438 to €26,178

Average Living Expense

₹ 14-24 Lakhs

₹ 10-18 Lakhs

Duration

3-4  Years

3-4  Years

Exams Accepted

IELTS, TOEFL

IELTS, TOEFL

Cost of Studying a Postgraduate Programme

This section talks about the cost of studying a postgraduate programme in UK vs Ireland. 

Cost of Studying Comparison Between UK and Ireland for PG course

Particulars

Postgraduate courses in UK

Postgraduate courses in Ireland

Average Tuition Fee

£17,000 - £22,000

€ 12,000 to €29,000

Average Living Expense

₹ 14-24 Lakhs

₹ 10-18 Lakhs

Duration

1.5-2 Years

1-2 Years

Exams Accepted

IELTS, TOEFL

IELTS, TOEFL

Student Visa for UK and Ireland

Know all about the UK Student Visa vs Ireland Student Visa. 

Score Predictor

Predict your IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE in just 4 steps!

Share 12th Board, Percentage, english score
Get estimated scores or IELTS, TOEFL & PTE


UK Student Visa

A full-time student visa is called a Tier 4 (general) student visa. For this visa, these rules apply -

  • Age should be 16 years or above.
  • Must be enrolled in full time degree.
  • The fee for the Tier 4 (General) student visa is GBP 490.
  • Students can apply for the Tier 4 (General) student visa 3 months before starting the course that they want to pursue.

Ireland Student Visa

  • Students are required to apply for an Ireland Study Visa.
  • Applicants would be required to show funds of at least EUR 10,000 per year in their bank account at the time of applying for the study visa.
  • Cost of Ireland student visa is EUR 100. 

Climate Condition

Check out month wise temperature range of UK and Ireland. We have picked one city of each nations:

Month UK (London) in Celsius Ireland (Dublin) in Celsius
January 4 to 9 3 to 8
February 4 to 9 3 to 8
March 6 to 12 4 to 10
April 7 to 15 5 to 12
May 10 to 18 8 to 15
June 13 to 21 11 to 18
July 15 to 23 12 to 19
August 15 to 23 12 to 19
September 13 to 20 10 to 17
October 10 to 16 8 to 14
November 7 to 12 5 to 11
December 5 to 9 4 to 8

Candidates looking for assistance with university admissions are required to get in touch with our Shiksha Study Abroad counsellors on our website. Students can get in touch with us in the comments below. 







Q:   Where can I get the UK Class 12 time table 2026?
A:

The Uttarakhand Board of School Education (UBSE) will release the UK Board 12th time table 2026 on the official website ubse.uk.gov.in/. The Uk 12th exam 2026 will be held in February/March 2026 in offline mode. Students can download the Uttarakhand Board date sheet Class 12 2026 on this page. Students are advised to download and save the UK 12th time table 2026.

Q:   Which is better between the University of Lancashire and the University of Nottingham?
A:

University of Lancashire and University of Nottingham are some of the most prestigious in UK and students across the globe desire to study here. In terms of tuition fee, University of Lancashire is more affordable. However, the Uni of Nottingham is lesser selective.

A comprehensive comparison between both universities:

ParametersUCLanNottingham Uni
Annual Fees (MBA)INR 14 L - 19 LINR 21 L - 32 L
Acceptance Rate22%11%
Q:   How to download UK 12th result 2026?
A:

Once released, students can check UK 12th result 2026 by following the steps below.

  • Open the official UK Board Result Website: uaresults.nic.in or ubse.uk.gov.in.
  • Enter roll number in the login window.
  • Now, click on the 'Get Result'.
  • UK Board 12th result 2026 will appear on the screen.
  • Take a printout or screenshot of the UBSE 12th result 2026 and secure it for future references.
About the Author
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Written by
Priya Garg
Study Abroad Expert
Priya Garg is an experienced content writer and editor. With her rich experience in content writing, teaching and research & analysis, Priya believes in providing only the correct information which is also up-to-dat Read Full Bio
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Reviewed by
Neha
UK Expertise
Neha Nain Kuntal, a highly qualified professional, holds an MBA in International Business and Marketing, a Master’s in Commerce, a PG Diploma in International Business Operations, and a Bachelor’s in Education. With Read Full Bio
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Comments

(1)

This article makes it appear much easier to immigrate or study in Ireland than it actually is. Firstly the Irish are quite racist compared to the British, and you will live a much more isolated life in Ireland compared to the UK as an Indian because of this. The Indian community in the UK is also mu

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